Progression of Heterotopic Ossification around the Elbow after Trauma

 Background: This study addresses the null hypothesis that there is no expansion of heterotopic ossification (HO) in the elbow beyond what can be seen early on.   Methods: The area of HO was measured on lateral radiographs of ۳۸ consecutive patients that had operative treatment of HO between ۲۰۰۰ and ۲۰۱۳. Measurements from radiographs obtained between ۳ to ۷ weeks were compared to measurements from radiographs made ۳ months or more after injury. Results: There was no significant difference between the average area of HO on the first (median ۲.۸ square centimeters, Q۱: ۱.۵, Q۳: ۵.۱) and later radiographs (median of ۲.۸ square centimeters, Q۱: ۱.۴, Q۳: ۵.۰) (P = ۰.۹۹). Discussion: According to our results the area of HO does not expand beyond what can be seen early in the disease process.  

Keywords:

Disease progression , Elbow , Heterotopic , Injuries , Ossification