Achilles tendon ruptures related to fluoroquinolone use – How can we manage these patients? A case series

Abstract

Background

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics can increase the risk of tendon rupture. Treatment of these Achilles ruptures can be difficult due to comorbidities.

Methods

A case series of 13 consecutive patients with Achilles ruptures following fluoroquinolone use were identified over a 2 year period through the Achilles Tendon rupture clinic and managed conservatively using functional rehabilitation. Follow-up with the Achilles tendon rupture score (ATRS) was completed at 3 months, 6 months and 12 months.

Results

Improvements were seen in ATRS scores over 12 months.

Conclusions

This case series is the largest published. Improvements were seen in ATRS scores indicating that this cohort can be managed successfully using functional rehabilitation after fluoroquinolone-induced Achilles rupture.