The treatment of massive periarticular heterotopic ossification after acetabular surgery

Objective To explore the prophylaxis and treatment of heterotopic ossification by analyzing the genesis, development, and outcomes of this disorder after acetabular surgery. Methods We retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of acetabular surgery on 56 patients (46 receiving acetabular fracture surgery and another 10 receiving total hip arthoplasty) from January 2000 to March 2007. Results The incidence rate of heterotopic ossification was 60% in patients undergoing acetabular fracture surgery and 43% in those receiving hip replacement, approximate 8% of whom required a secondary surgery to remove the ossified tissues. Conclusions Early radiotherapy or medical treatment should be performed for the prophylaxis of heterotopic ossification following hip replacement or acetabular fracture surgery and nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most effective medications. Surgical resection is the only treatment for those with severe hip joint dysfunction due to heterotopic ossification.