Fatal pulmonary thromboembolism following physical torture

Although perpetrators of torture usually use common methods to torture their victim, occasionally they devise novel techniques. Doctors are often called upon to examine victims of torture. This case report is intended to highlight 'the helicopter technique' (also called the, 'parrots perch' in Latin America in 1970s and 1980s) and 'chicken kebab' in Iran (more recently) and the complication of venous thromboembolism. This is a report of a victim who was arrested by the police and subsequently tortured. He died 2 weeks later from pulmonary embolism. The history, physical examination, treatment and autopsy findings of this case are discussed.