Case 30 – History

 

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Case 30

Alcohol use disorder and patellar tendon repair


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Brief History

 
The patient was a middle-aged Caucasian man with alcohol use disorder, atrial fibrillation, hypertension, status post coronary artery bypass surgery, pulmonary fibrosis (unknown etiology), cataract surgery complicated by detached retinas, arthritis, a skin condition with “fistulas,” and status post double knee replacement five years prior.

Six weeks before death, he accidentally tore his left patellar tendon which was surgically repaired.

The post-operative course was complicated by left foot ulceration and superior migration of the patella.

The patient went for a post-operative clinic visit and was later that day found dead after an unwitnessed cardiopulmonary arrest.

 

Next: External exam

Discussion Questions


1. Summarize the history and clinical issues.

2. Why do you think the patient might have died?