Airway Complications in a Patient with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A Case Report-Airway Complications in a Patient with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A Case Report

Airway Complications in a Patient with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A Case Report

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The case report highlights the complex airway management challenges in patients with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS), demonstrated through a specific case involving a 25-year-old female with hEDS. The patient underwent numerous gastroscopies under sedation across various hospitals, generally without complications but with one instance of mild laryngospasm and a significant airway obstruction post-procedure. This incident involved severe airway collapse, which was resolved by removing stimuli and providing oxygen indirectly. A subsequent analysis revealed her highly flexible trachea.<br /><br />This report emphasizes the importance of comprehensive preoperative assessment for patients with hEDS due to unpredictable airway issues. EDS, a genetic connective tissue disorder, affects men and women alike and presents a risk for various complications, including airway issues. In this case, traditional airway management strategies failed, prompting a tailored airway strategy in collaboration with the patient for future procedures, which led to successful outcomes without complications.<br /><br />The report leverages insights from patient coproduction of care plans, improving outcomes by incorporating patient experiences and preferences into care strategies. EDS can significantly impact multiple organ systems and patient quality of life, presenting diverse symptoms that require personalized medical approaches. The study underscores the necessity of adequate documentation, communication, and tailored anesthetic protocols in patients with EDS, advocating for a comprehensive understanding of their unique medical needs to prevent adverse events. By doing so, healthcare providers can enhance care quality and patient safety in this vulnerable population. This case also calls for improved coordination and information sharing among healthcare facilities to ensure continuity and standardization of care for such patients.

Keywords

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

airway management

hypermobile EDS

preoperative assessment

genetic disorder

patient coproduction

anesthetic protocols

healthcare coordination

trachea flexibility

patient safety