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.