Introduction

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is the formation of pathological bone in muscle or soft tissue.  The incidence in individuals following a spinal cord injury (SCI) has been reported to vary greatly, ranging from 10-78% (van Kuijk et al. 2002, Banovac 2001).  Banovac et al. (2001) notes HO occurs most frequently in the first 2 months after SCI below the level of paralysis.  The etiology of HO is not fully understood which creates challenges in determining appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

Teasell RW, Mehta S, Aubut JL, Ashe MC, Tu L. (2010). Heterotopic Ossification Following Spinal Cord Injury. Syringomyelia Following Spinal Cord Injury. In Eng JJ, Teasell RW, Miller WC, Wolfe DL, Townson AF, Hsieh JTC, Connolly SJ, Mehta S, Sakakibara BM, editors. Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Evidence. Version 3.0.