Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine  2016;40(6):1135-1139

doi:10.5535/arm.2016.40.6.1135

Effects of Radiation Therapy on Established Neurogenic Heterotopic Ossification.

Chan Ho LEE 1 ; Su Jung SHIM ; Hyun Jung KIM ; Hyuna YANG ; Youn Joo KANG

Affiliations

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Keywords

Brain injuries; Heterotopic ossification; Radiotherapy

Country

Republic of Korea

Language

English

Abstract

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is frequently seen on rehabilitation units after spinal cord injuries, fractures, brain injuries, and limb amputations. Currently, there is no effective treatment for HO other than prophylaxis with anti-inflammatory medications, irradiation, and bisphosphonate administration. These prophylactic treatments are not effective for managing ectopic bone once it has formed. Here we describe three cases of established neurogenic HO treated with radiation therapy (RT). All patients had decreased serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and bone-specific ALP levels with decreased pain but increased range of motion immediately after RT. Post-treatment X-rays revealed no further growth of the HO. All patients maintained clinical and laboratory improvements 4 or 6 months after the RT. Our results suggest that RT is safe and effective in decreasing pain and activity of neurogenic HO.