PMC

A schematic representation of trauma-induced heterotopic ossification (HO). Multiple forms of trauma, like fractures, burn, spinal cord, and brain injuries and combat injury (left) result in heterotopic ossification. Ensuing the inflammatory phase post-trauma, HO occurs via the same underlying mechanism of endochondral ossification in all these cases.

A summary of the 2 different forms of heterotopic ossification, trauma-induced and genetic HO. Multiple injury types (trauma) result in local or systemic stimuli that induce HO. The tissues predominantly susceptible to HO development include tendons, ligaments, and skeletal muscle, which is in close association with long bones. Despite the multiple progenitor cells and signaling pathways underlying initiation/development of HO, the ectopic bone is universally ‘endochondral’ in nature. In recent years, several diagnostic and treatment modalities have been developed for the management of HO.