Multiple spontaneous dislocations in a patient with Ehlers–Danlos syndrome

Abstract

Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) consists of a heterogeneous group of inherited connective tissue disorders, characterised by generalised joint hypermobility, hyperextensibility of the skin, dystrophic scars, and a tendency to excessive bleeding. Sequelae include recurrent low impact trauma dislocations, chronic joint pain, and early osteoarthritis. This report describes a case of multiple simultaneous dislocations at distant sites. We highlight the importance of paying consideration to the exposure of patients to large cumulative doses of ionising radiation to diagnose and confirm reduction of frequent dislocations, and ask whether radiographic confirmation is necessary on every occasion in this subset of patients.