History of Present Illness:

A pleasant man in his mid-50’s presents to the hospital after an accident at work where heavy metal containers fell onto his head, chest and both legs.  He complains of pain in multiple areas

Vital Signs & Physical Exam:

Vitals stable.  Alert.  Head, rib, right knee and left ankle pain and tenderness

Initial Diagnostic Testing:

  • Imaging: we are focusing on just the right knee for this case

What is the most likely knee injury?

  • A) ACL tear
  • B) Patellar tendon tear
  • C) MCL tear
  • D) Tibial plateau fx
  • E) Meniscus tear

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ANSWER:

What is the most likely knee injury?

  • A) ACL tear
  • B) Patellar tendon tear – CORRECT: there is patella alta and some patellar bone fragments
  • C) MCL tear
  • D) Tibial plateau fx
  • E) Meniscus tear

1-Minute Consult on this topic: Click HERE and scroll 

 

CASE CONCLUSION: Also had an ankle fracture on the other side.  Admitted for repair of both