Heterotopic ossification associated with subarchinoidal hemorrhage

Abstract

Heterotopic ossification has been reported as a complication of central nerve disorders such as spinal cord injuries and cerebral lacerations. Whenever heterotopic ossification is an associated complication, range of motion limitations arise and this makes it an important factor in the obstruction of rehabilitation. The exact cause of heterotopic ossification has not been clarified; however, we do know that it is important to carry out rehabilitation, especially physical therapy exercises, such as gentle range of motion exercises, early on as a preventative measure. Subarchinoidal hemorrhage at the acute stage has several danger factors such as hemorrhage, angiospasms and hydrochephalus so there is a tendency to delay the start of rehabilitation compared to cases of cerebral infarction and cerebral hemorrhage. In this report we look at four cases of heterotopic ossification associated with subarchinoidal hemorrhage and also look at the prevention of heterotopic ossification.