Obstetric anaesthesia and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

The obstetric and anaesthetic problems of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome are discussed. A new unclassified type of the syndrome is described. The possibility of bleeding presents a serious challenge for both the obstetrician and the anaesthetist. A detailed medical history, including family history, are important in determining the method of anaesthesia since blood coagulation tests are usually normal. The anaesthetic management of two parturients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is illustrated. Caudal, extradural, and subarachnoid block techniques for labour and Caesarean section were used safely on three occasions in these two patients.