Retrospective Analysis of Malpractice Claims Following Achilles Tendon Rupture

Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) is among the most common foot and ankle injuries, with a rising incidence of up to 50 per 100 000 persons. We sought to investigate the medicolegal characteristics associated with ATR.

Westlaw Precision, an online, legal database from across the United States, was queried for all jury verdicts and settlements pertaining to "malpractice" and "Achilles" tendon rupture from 1980 to 2024. Data extracted included date and state of claim filing, patient and defendant demographics, jury verdict, monetary payments, basis of litigation, and listed patient complications.

A total of 50 of 236 claims were included in this analysis. A defendant verdict was reached in 82% of claims. The average indemnity payment was $431 405. Orthopaedic surgeons were named in 44% of claims. Nearly one-half of claims were levied due to a delayed or missed diagnosis (24%) or insufficient informed consent (18%). Subsequent surgery was the most frequent complication of the alleged negligence (18%); however, patient death occurred in 14% of claims as well. Patient disagreement with the treatment strategy was seen in 18% of claims.

Achilles tendon rupture is an infrequent source of medicolegal burden within foot and ankle treatment. Such legal action most commonly arises from diagnostic delays, insufficient informed consent, and patient disagreement with the treatment strategy. Early recognition, comprehensive counseling on management options and risks, and shared decision making are essential strategies to reduce litigation risk and improve patient outcomes.

Level IV, case series / retrospective database review without comparison group.