Abstract
Introduction: Rupture of the Achilles tendon is relatively common. High incidence of thromboembolism during the first eight weeks after Achilles tendon rupture has been reported in literature. The use of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis after an Achilles tendon rupture is controversial. Delayed deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a wellknown complication after operative and nonoperative treatment of Achilles tendon rupture but it has not been reported as an acute presentation following achillies tendon rupture. Case Report: We report a case of DVT presenting acutely after Achilles tendon rupture. It presented with soft clinical signs. High index of suspicion was required to diagnose DVT. The authors could not find similar association between the two clinical problems reported in literature. Conclusion: We recommend that risk assessment should be undertaken in any patients following lower limb injury even if it is not a major injury and adequate thromboprophylaxis should be started according to the risk rating when deciding on immobilization of the lower limb.
Highlights
Rupture of the Achilles tendon is relatively common
We present a case of acute presentation of Achilles tendon rupture with concomitant deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
The patient was seen in the orthopedic clinic to decide on the definitive treatment, when it was noticed that the swelling had became diffuse involving the whole leg from the knee downwards which was more than that expected for Achilles tendon rupture alone
Summary
Venous thromboembolism is a recognized complication after lower limb injury [1]. Rupture of the Achilles tendon is relatively common and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a wellknown complication after operative or nonoperative treatment of Achilles tendon rupture. If tendon is ruptured, the foot will not demonstrate plantar flexion This test may lose its accuracy one week after injury. The patient was seen in the orthopedic clinic to decide on the definitive treatment, when it was noticed that the swelling had became diffuse involving the whole leg from the knee downwards which was more than that expected for Achilles tendon rupture alone. There was no reported evidence of pulmonary embolism or any complication from either the DVT or its treatment
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