[Heterotopic ossification - from the aetiology to the current management]

Heterotopic ossifications (HO) are defined as the abnormal formation of bone in soft tissues. It can be classified into acquired and congenital forms. The acquired form, of which the pathogenesis is not fully understood, is often diagnosed in patients with traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, musculo-skeletal trauma or injuries associated with burns. HO presents itself mostly asymptomatically, the symptoms of the initial stadium are often unspecific; however, severe forms can lead to severe disability. Imaging techniques, foremost bone szintigraphy, are mostly used for verification of the diagnosis. Local radiotherapy and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the classical therapeutic and prophylactic options. In advanced stages, surgical resection may be required.