Heterotopic Ossification & Venous Thromboembolism

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is the formation of pathologic bone within soft tissues, often muscle tissues, where bone formation does not usually occur (Watanabe & Sant 2001). The incidence of HO in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) has been reported to range from 11–77% but is clinically relevant in 10–20% (Dizdar et al. 2013; Garland et al. 1980; Rogers 1988; Sarafis et al. 1999; Sazbon et al. 1981). Risk factors include skeletal trauma, spasticity, diffuse axonal injury, mechanical ventilation, prolonged immobilization, and injury severity (Moreta & de los Mozos 2014). HO is often quite painful and limits joint mobility; the restricted joint range of motion (ROM) may exacerbate disability and impede progress towards desired rehabilitation goals.