Sometimes, a physician may perform a skin biopsy to study the chemical makeup of the connective tissue. The biopsy involves removing a small piece of skin, under local anesthesia. Physicians who are able to diagnose EDS may include medical geneticists, pediatricians, rheumatologists, dermatologists and orthopaedists. The gaping skin wounds, which are common in several types of EDS, should be approached with care. Proper repair of these wounds is necessary to prevent cosmetic disfigurement.
Surgical procedures can be risky, as fragile tissues can unexpectedly tear.
Suturing may present problems for the same reason. Excessive sun exposure should be avoided by the daily use of sunscreen. One should avoid activities that cause the joint to lock or overextend. A physician may prescribe bracing to stabilize joints. Surgical repair of joints may be necessary at some time.