Koolen PGL, Schreinemacher MHF, Peppelenbosch AG. Heterotopic ossifications in midline abdominal scars: a critical review of the literature.
Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2010;
40:155-9. [PMID:
20400341 DOI:
10.1016/j.ejvs.2010.03.010]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2009] [Accepted: 03/06/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Heterotopic ossification (HO) is the formation of bone outside the skeletal system, including old incisions. Although a well-known complication after orthopaedic surgery, it is still considered an uncommon phenomenon after vascular surgery. Recent data, however, show that up to 25% of all patients develop HO after midline abdominal surgery. In this article, we present the case of a symptomatic HO, 7 years after an aortobiiliac prosthetic reconstruction for an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Furthermore, we review current insights into the aetiology and show bone morphogenetic proteins to play a crucial role. Treatment options are also reviewed, but lacking any supportive evidence for other therapies, surgical excision with primary closure is the treatment of choice.
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