Multifocal heterotopic ossification in a patient with sickle cell disease: a case report

A patient had a sickle cell crisis and developed heterotopic ossification of multiple joints. Many disease entities have been associated with heterotopic ossification; however, heterotopic ossification has rarely, if ever, been associated with sickle cell disease. Only 10% of patients with heterotopic ossification develop ankylosis of their joints. This patient developed ankylosis of several joints. Surgical excision of the periarticular heterotopic ossification allowed full passive motion of the involved joints. After extensive rehabilitation, the patient could perform all activities of daily living and ambulate comfortably without devices.