Synthetic posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and below-knee prosthesis use in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Abstract

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) has been associated with irreparable arterial disruption, spontaneous and traumatic, necessitating amputation. Recurrent and chronic joint dislocation is a common component. Because of the very thin, hypermobile skin and "tissue paper scars," these patients would be expected to be poor candidates for the use of lower extremity prostheses. A review of the literature failed to show any reports of lower extremity prosthesis use in EDS patients or of recurrent and chronic joint dislocation treated by synthetic ligament reconstruction. The case of a 21-year-old woman is an example of both.