Effects of Radiation Therapy on Established Neurogenic Heterotopic Ossification

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is the formation of mature bone in soft tissues, often seen after injuries like spinal cord injuries or brain injuries. This can limit rehabilitation, especially when accompanied by joint pain. Radiation therapy (RT) has been explored as a treatment for HO. This study reports on three patients with established neurogenic HO (HO resulting from brain injury) who were treated with RT. The study found that RT was associated with decreased pain, increased range of motion, and decreased levels of certain markers in the blood that indicate bone formation activity.

• 1
  Radiation therapy resulted in decreased pain and increased range of motion in patients with established neurogenic heterotopic ossification.
• 2
  Post-treatment X-rays showed no further growth of the heterotopic ossification after radiation therapy.
• 3
  Clinical and laboratory improvements were maintained for 4 to 6 months after radiation therapy.