Vitrectomy in a Patient with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: Surgical Challenges and Visual Results

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) comprises a heterogeneous group of heritable connective-tissue disorders characterized by tissue fragility, skin hyperextensibility, and joint hypermobility. Ophthalmic manifestations including high myopia, corneal fragility, and a predisposition to retinal detachment have been reported across different EDS subtypes. We describe a 31-year-old male with EDS who presented with bilateral rhegmatogenous retinal detachment associated with multiple peripheral tears and early cortical opacities in both lenses. Posterior vitrectomy with scleral indentation, perfluorocarbon liquid, and silicone-oil tamponade was performed using tailored surgical adaptations to minimize trauma to fragile ocular tissues. Post-operatively, visual acuity improved from counting fingers to 20/80 in the initially treated eye, with no significant intra- or post-operative complications. This report highlights the technical challenges and need for meticulous planning in retinal surgery for EDS patients, and underscores the importance of continuous ophthalmic follow-up for early detection of complications and optimization of visual outcomes.