Incidence and characteristics of heterotopic ossiﬁcation after spinal cord injury: a single institution study in India

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2019 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-019-0216-6 · Published: July 25, 2019

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Musculoskeletal Medicine

Simple Explanation

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is the formation of bone in soft tissues around a joint, common after spinal cord injury (SCI). It can lead to complications like joint stiffness and pressure ulcers. This study investigated the incidence and characteristics of HO in SCI patients at a single center in India. The goal was to understand how often HO occurs and what factors might contribute to it. The study found that the incidence of HO was 6.3% among SCI patients in their institution, with the hip joint being the most common site. They also found a significant association between pressure ulcers and the development of HO.

Study Duration

January 2001 and December 2017

Participants

303 patients with spinal cord injuries aged 15–60 years

Evidence Level

Retrospective, descriptive, hospital-based study

Key Findings

1
The incidence of heterotopic ossification (HO) in this Indian cohort of SCI patients was 6.3%.
2
The most common site for HO development was the hip joint (73%).
3
A significant association was found between the presence of pressure ulcers and the development of HO (P = 0.01).

Research Summary

This study investigated the incidence and characteristics of heterotopic ossification (HO) after spinal cord injury (SCI) in a single institution in India. It retrospectively analyzed data from 303 SCI patients between 2001 and 2017. The study found that the incidence of HO was 6.3%, with the hip joint being the most common site. A significant association was observed between pressure ulcers and the development of HO. Early diagnosis of HO in SCI patients is crucial due to limited treatment options, relying on clinical features confirmed by lab tests and imaging. Further studies across India are needed to determine the overall incidence of HO.

Practical Implications

Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of HO in SCI patients is important to manage the condition effectively.

Risk Factor Awareness

Awareness of risk factors such as pressure ulcers can help in preventing HO.

Further Research

More research is needed to understand the incidence and risk factors of HO in different populations.

Study Limitations

1
Patients without clinical evidence of HO were not screened, potentially leading to an underestimation of HO cases.
2
The study could not get accurate data regarding the grading and number of pressure ulcers.
3
Single-center study limits the generalizability of the findings.

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