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Myositis ossificans of the upper arm
The American Journal of Sports Medicine
|November 1, 1980
Summary
Myositis ossificans in the upper arm, often from football injuries, typically resolves with conservative treatment. Surgery for persistent masses has a high recurrence rate, even after maturation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Musculoskeletal Radiology
Background:
- Myositis ossificans is characterized by heterotopic bone formation following muscular contusion.
- While common in the thigh, literature on upper arm myositis ossificans is limited.
Observation:
- Ten cases of upper arm myositis ossificans were reviewed, all linked to football injuries.
- Clinical presentation included pain, palpable mass, and elbow flexion contracture.
Findings:
- Conservative, nonoperative management led to significant improvement or asymptomatic outcomes in 70% of cases within 3 months.
- Surgery for persistent masses resulted in recurrence in 66% of cases, despite delayed excision until radiographic maturation.
Implications:
- Conservative management is effective for most upper arm myositis ossificans cases.
- Surgical intervention carries a high risk of recurrence and should be approached cautiously.
- Further research into optimal management strategies for this condition is warranted.