Elbow Heterotopic Ossification Excision in Patients with Worker’s Compensation Claims

Abstract

The effect of worker's compensation claims following the surgical management of symptomatic heterotopic ossification (HO) about the elbow has not previously been evaluated. The purpose of this study is to report on a consecutive series of patients with HO about the elbow, and to compare the results of surgical treatment and a standardized postoperative rehabilitation regimen, with regards to the presence of a worker's compensation claim. A retrospective review of all patients treated operatively for HO of the elbow at a single institution was performed. Forty-six elbows with HO treated surgically were identified. Seventeen of the 46 elbows (37%) had workers' compensation claims at the time of surgery. Other than gender (p=0.007), there was no statistical difference in patient demographics or medical history. There was no statistical difference in postoperative flexion-extension arc between the two groups (p>0.05). There was a 17% (8/46) postoperative complication rate, however there was no difference in frequency of complications between groups (Worker's Comp: 18% vs. Non-Worker's Comp: 17%; p=0.97). Surgical management combined with postoperative HO prophylaxis and a regimented rehabilitation program is an effective treatment for patients with heterotopic ossification of the elbow and workers compensation claims did not adversely affect the postoperative range of motion arc or complications.