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Direct Mouse Trauma/Burn Model of Heterotopic Ossification
Published on: August 6, 2015
Heterotopic ossification in a throwing athlete after elbow arthroscopy
Samir Sodha1, Sameer H Nagda, Brian J Sennett
1Crystal Run Health Care, Middletown, New York, USA.
Summary
Heterotopic ossification, a rare complication after elbow arthroscopy, can cause significant motion loss in throwing athletes. Surgical removal can restore function, allowing a return to competitive sports.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Bone Biology
Background:
- Elbow arthroscopy is a common minimally invasive procedure for athletes.
- Heterotopic ossification (HO) is the abnormal formation of bone in soft tissues.
- Throwing athletes are susceptible to elbow injuries requiring surgical intervention.
Observation:
- A young, healthy, throwing athlete developed heterotopic ossification after elbow arthroscopy.
- The heterotopic bone formation resulted in a loss of elbow range of motion.
- Diagnosis was confirmed using plain radiographs and a bone scan.
Findings:
- The patient underwent open excision of the heterotopic bone 22 months post-arthroscopy.
- Following surgical removal, the athlete successfully returned to competitive throwing the subsequent season.
Implications:
- Heterotopic ossification is a rare but significant complication following elbow arthroscopy.
- Consider HO in the differential diagnosis for throwing athletes with persistent motion loss post-arthroscopy.
- Early recognition and management can facilitate return to high-level athletic activity.
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