Treatment of traumatic myositis ossificans with acetic acid iontophoresis

The purpose of this case report is to document the treatment of a patient who had traumatic myositis ossificans with acetic acid iontophoresis. A 16-year-old boy developed quadriceps femoris muscle myositis ossificans as a result of a springboard diving accident. A 2% acetic acid solution was administered via iontophoresis into the myositis ossificans, followed by 8 minutes of pulsed ultrasound at 1.5 W/cm2. The treatment was performed three times per week for 3 weeks. At the conclusion of the treatments, radiographic findings indicated a 98.9% decrease in the size of the ossified mass. The patient regained full range of motion and was able to return to pain-free activity. This case report demonstrates the potential for a therapeutic program of acetic acid iontophoresis and ultrasound in eliminating myositis ossificans.