Prevention of heterotopic ossification: an experimental study using a plasma expander in a murine model

摘要

BackgroundHeterotopic ossification (HO) is a frequent complication following orthopedic and trauma surgery. It often leads to substantial morbidity as many affected patients suffer from pain and joint contractures. Current prophylactic measures include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) and local radiation. However, several disadvantages such as delayed fracture healing and impaired ossification have been reported. For this reason, a novel approach for prevention of HO was searched for.We hypothesized that systemic administration of hydroxyethyl starch (HES), a substance known to influence microcirculation, would reduce formation of HO in a murine model.