Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 16, 2026
07:01
Direct Mouse Trauma/Burn Model of Heterotopic Ossification
Published on: August 6, 2015
10.8K
Radiation therapy for recurrent heterotopic ossification prophylaxis after partial metatarsal amputation
Troy J Boffeli1, Ryan R Pfannenstein2, Jonathan C Thompson3
1Director, Foot and Ankle Surgical Residency Program, Regions Hospital/HealthPartners Institute for Education and Research, St. Paul, MN.
Summary
Single-dose radiation therapy effectively prevents heterotopic ossification recurrence after metatarsal amputation. This intervention reduces the risk of re-ulceration and re-amputation in high-risk neuropathic patients.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Radiation Oncology
- Diabetic Foot Management
Background:
- Heterotopic ossification (HO) commonly causes re-ulceration after partial metatarsal amputation.
- Excessive bone growth leads to plantar pressure, increasing ulceration and limb loss risk in neuropathic patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of single-dose radiation therapy in preventing recurrent HO.
- To assess radiation therapy as an adjunct to surgery for high-risk patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 11 patients with HO post-metatarsal amputation.
- Patients received prophylactic single-dose radiation therapy after HO resection.
- Follow-up assessed HO recurrence and clinical relevance.
Main Results:
- 91% of patients had mid- to high-grade HO and 82% had neuropathic ulcers pre-intervention.
- 82% of patients showed no HO recurrence at 6-week follow-up.
- 2 patients had clinically insignificant low-grade HO reformation.
Conclusions:
- Single-dose radiation therapy is effective in preventing HO recurrence.
- Radiation therapy serves as a valuable adjunct to surgery, reducing re-ulceration and re-amputation risks.
