HEDS and surgery: how to optimize outcomes?
Navigating surgery with hEDS requires thoughtful planning and collaboration between patients, surgeons, and physical therapists. In my experience in guiding patients through their surgical recovery journeys, I have observed key strategies that consistently contribute to successful outcomes.
Firstly, optimal outcomes begin with selecting a surgeon who possesses expertise in hEDS and can acknowledge its complexities. Whether it's a minor procedure or a more significant operation, seeking a referral to a specialized facility can significantly enhance your surgical journey.
Before undergoing surgery, prioritize building strength. Surgery imposes physical stress on the body, both during the procedure itself and throughout the recovery period. By engaging in targeted strength-building exercises beforehand, individuals can better prepare their bodies to handle these demands. Strengthening specific muscle groups can enhance overall physical resilience, making it easier to withstand the stress of surgery and the subsequent rehabilitation process.
After surgery, focus on gradually returning to an active lifestyle as soon as possible, respecting your surgeon's guidelines. Muscle deconditioning resulting from inactivity can exacerbate chronic pain and fatigue. Working closely with a physical therapist can help you safely reintegrate physical activity into your routine. Rehabilitation must be tailored to accommodate the unique needs of hEDS patients to mitigate the risk of re-injury.
Budgeting extra time for the healing process is essential to avoid frustration and ensure adequate recovery. Often times wound healing can take 1.5 to 2 times longer for those with hEDS compared to the general population.
In conclusion, navigating surgery with hEDS requires a comprehensive approach that begins with informed decision-making regarding surgical care and extends to diligent pre-surgery preparation and tailored rehabilitation efforts. By prioritizing these strategies, individuals with hEDS can optimize their surgical outcomes and pave the way for a smoother recovery journey.
References:
1. Castori M. Surgical Recommendations in Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome(s) Need Patient Classification: The Example of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Hypermobility Type (a.k.a. Joint Hypermobility Syndrome). Dig Surg. 2012;29:453–455. DOI: 10.1159/000346068.
2.Chopra, P. and Bluestein, L. Perioperative Care in Patients with Ehlers Danlos Syndromes. Open J Anesthesiol. 2020; 10:13-29. DOI: 10.4236/ojanes.2020.101002
