[Pelvic and skeletal hyperostosis (diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis, Forestier disease)]

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) presents with spinal and extraspinal manifestations.
• Ectopic ossification and hyperostotic spurs are recognized features of DISH.
• The pelvic area is a site where these ossifications can occur.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of hyperostotic spurs and ectopic ossifications in the pelvic area.
• To assess the clinical significance of these pelvic ossifications.
• To determine if spinal DISH is a risk factor for ectopic ossification, particularly post-total hip arthroplasty.

Main Methods:

• Review of two studies examining pelvic ossifications.
• Analysis of prevalence and clinical significance of hyperostotic spurs and ectopic ossifications.
• Correlation of spinal DISH with ectopic ossification development, especially after hip surgery.

Main Results:

• Spinal DISH appears to be a risk factor for ectopic ossification.
• Ectopic ossification is particularly noted in the postoperative period following total hip arthroplasty.
• Pain and reduced range of motion are not consistently associated with these ossifications.

Conclusions:

• Spinal DISH may predispose individuals to ectopic ossification, notably after hip replacement surgery.
• The presence of ectopic ossification does not invariably lead to clinical symptoms like pain or restricted movement.
• Further research may clarify the long-term implications and management of these findings.