Pulmonary embolism following bilateral quadriceps tendon repair with unilateral tourniquet use: A case report.

Abstract

Case: An active healthy 68-year-old male sustained a bilateral quadriceps tendon rupture while running. He underwent a simultaneous bilateral quadriceps tendon repair in a dual-surgeon approach. The right quadriceps tendon was repaired with a tourniquet, while the left quadriceps tendon tear was repaired without one. Postoperatively, the patient developed deep vein thrombosis in the right leg, which led to a bilateral pulmonary embolism. This case illustrates a potential complication of tourniquet use in patients undergoing quadriceps tendon repairs.

Conclusion: The use of tourniquets in orthopaedic surgeries may be associated with potential risks, such as development of venous thromboembolism including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. This case highlights the importance of carefully considering tourniquet use for quadriceps tendon repairs and close postoperative monitoring, early mobility, and thromboprophylaxis to prevent severe complications.