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Achilles tendon rupture — RCPSC EM MCQ

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EasyMusculoskeletalAchilles tendon ruptureRCPSC EM

CTAS 4: A 45-year-old felt a sudden pop in the calf while playing squash. Vitals are normal. He can limp but cannot perform a single-leg heel raise. There is a palpable gap 4 cm above the calcaneus and the Thompson test is abnormal. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: C — Achilles tendon rupture

A pop, palpable tendon gap, weakness of plantarflexion and abnormal Thompson test are typical of Achilles rupture. Immobilisation in plantarflexion and orthopaedic follow-up are needed.

Reference: Canadian orthopaedic emergency practice; Royal College EM Objectives