Heterotopic ossification after superior capsular reconstruction

Heterotopic ossification of the shoulder after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Heterotopic ossification (HO) often arises in response to trauma, prior surgical procedures, neurological injuries, or burns. However, its presentation as a complication of shoulder arthroscopy is uncommon and can sometimes lead to functional impairment. In our study, we report a case of HO complicating rotator cuff repair, along with details of the surgical treatment and subsequent progression.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report the case of a 45-year-old man with no medical history, who had undergone a rotator cuff arthroscopic repair of his left shoulder. Despite initial improvements, he developed intense pain and stiffness of the operated shoulder. X-rays revealed an extensive HO. Surgical revision and excision of the ossification, followed by high-dose indomethacin in combination with proton pump inhibitors and specialized physiotherapy, resulted in remarkable improvement in shoulder function.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Studies investigating HO in shoulder arthroplasty have unveiled a diverse range of formation rates, spanning from 15 % to 62 %. Nonetheless, it's noteworthy that the prevalence of HO around the shoulder remains less common in comparison to other anatomical sites, especially in the context of arthroscopic surgical procedures. The exact mechanism and pathophysiology that leads to HO formation remains unknown. It is believed to stem from a combination of multiple factors and is associated with various contributors. Arthroscopic intervention, coupled with high-dose Indomethacin, offers an effective approach for managing HO.

CONCLUSION

While HO remains an uncommon complication after shoulder arthroscopy, it is crucial for clinicians to consider it in patients experiencing post-surgery stiffness and pain.

Massive Heterotopic Ossification in the Subdeltoid Space after Shoulder Surgery and Symptomatic Improvement from Conservative Treatment: A Case Report

Background

We herein report a case of heterotopic ossification (HO) in the subdeltoid space after open resection and rotator cuff repair in a patient with refractory calcific tendinitis.

Case

A 56-year-old man was admitted to our hospital because of right shoulder pain and difficulty in raising his arm. The patient was diagnosed with calcific tendinitis with contracture of the right shoulder joint and was scheduled for surgery because of refractory shoulder pain. Calcium removal was performed using a mini-open approach. Postoperative radiographs showed no calcium deposits. There was mild residual pain at 3 months postoperatively, and the range of motion (ROM) had deteriorated when compared to preoperative levels. A massive ossified shadow was observed in the subdeltoid space on radiographs. Etidronate disodium was orally administered, and the patient continued to undergo careful rehabilitation. HO occurred at 3 months postoperatively, matured at 1 year postoperatively, and showed no progression between 1 year and 2 years postoperatively. The clinical symptoms corresponded with the image findings, and restricted ROM and decreased shoulder function scores were observed at 3 months postoperatively. Although the ROM remained restricted and the function score remained low until 1 year postoperatively, a gradual recovery was achieved at 2 years postoperatively, and the patient did not require reoperation.

Discussion

Although early diagnosis, evaluation, and resection are recommended for treating HO, the maturation of bone may lead to symptomatic improvement and the prevention of reoperation, provided that careful rehabilitative measures are performed to avoid ankyloses.