Heterotopic Ossification Following Pediatric Elbow Dislocation: A Case Report

Elbow dislocations are relatively uncommon in children, and most cases present with associated fractures. Complete elbow dislocations are relatively rare, and may involve an increased likelihood of severe soft-tissue injuries. A potential complication is the development of heterotopic ossification, which is usually asymptomatic, but may disturb the joint motion. We describe a case of an 11-year-old girl who sustained an elbow dislocation without associated fractures, but with partial distal disruption of the brachialis muscle. Following closed reduction, the patient developed heterotopic ossification in the anterior distal third of the humerus and loss of range of motion. Surgical treatment with excision of heterotopic ossification through a direct lateral approach provided an excellent result. Heterotopic ossification is a potential complication following elbow dislocation in children, and surgical excision through a lateral approach is an option of treatment when there is functional limitation. Before making the decision to perform surgery, the maturation of the ossification process must be observed.