Does resection of heterotopic ossification of the elbow result in satisfactory functional outcomes?

Abstract

Objective: heterotopic ossification (HO) is a common cause of elbow stiffness following surgical treatment of elbow trauma. In this study, our aim was to evaluate the mid-term functional outcomes of open surgical procedures for HO. Methods: in this retrospective study approved by the institutional review board (IRB), all patients who were diagnosed as having stiff elbow due to HO and underwent surgical resection at a single institution from 2006 to 2013 were included. Intrinsic (inside the joint) pathologies were excluded. Range of motion (ROM) in sagittal and coronal planes, complications, functional scores such as Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score (Q-DASH), and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) were evaluated before and after surgery. Results: there were 19 patients (16 males, 3 females) with a mean age of 38.6 (range 15-69) years. At an average follow-up of 36 +/- 8 months, the mean flexion-extension arc was improved from 27.4 degrees to 99.2 degrees (p<0.001) and mean supination-pronation arc was improved from 48.9 degrees to 102.3 degrees (p<0.001). The mean Q-DASH score was decreased from 68.2 to 17.1 (p<0.001) and mean MEPS was improved from 37.5 to 85.6 (p<0.001). Conclusion: excision of heterotopic bone and releasing contracted tissues around elbow can provide a substantial increase in range of motion and improvement in clinical scores.