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Radiation prophylaxis as primary prevention of heterotopic ossification of the knee: classification of disease and indications for treatment
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Radiation prophylaxis as primary prevention of heterotopic ossification of the knee: classification of disease and indications for treatment

Larry C. Daugherty, Jason R. Bell, Brandon J. Fisher, Neal Sankhla, Katherine Tzou, Filip Troicki, Michael L. Wong, Lydia T. Komarnicky and Luther W. Brady
Journal of radiation oncology, v 2(1)
01 Mar 2013
url
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13566-012-0077-0View
Published, Version of Record (VoR)Maybe Open Access (Publisher Bronze) Open

Abstract

Life Sciences & Biomedicine Oncology Science & Technology
Objective Heterotopic ossification (HO) of the knee joint is seen in up to 42% of patients following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Despite this prevalence, there is a paucity of data to validate the efficacy and after effects of prophylactic radiotherapy (PRT) to the knee to prevent HO. We report retrospectively our institution's experience with 12 patients treated with PRT of the knee joint. We also present a classification scheme and review the indications for PRT following TKA. Methods Between 1999 and 2010, 112 patients were treated at our institution with PRT for prevention of HO. Of these patients, 12 underwent PRT to the knee joint and were included in our analysis. All patients were treated with one fraction of PRT to a total dose of 700 cGy. Primary end points were joint range of motion (ROM) and HO formation. ROM was evaluated as "limited" or "full" by the patient's surgeon or primary care provider at the most recent follow-up examination. The most recent radiograph was evaluated for presence of HO. Results With a median follow-up time of 78 months (range, 1-132 months), 0/12 patients had evidence of HO on x-ray imaging. Full ROM was documented in 11/12 patients. One patient had limited ROM at the most recent follow-up due to severe osteoarthritis. No patient had impaired mobility or ROM directly attributed to fibrosis or late effects of PRT. Conclusion Based on our retrospective analysis, PRT appears to be a safe, effective treatment for prophylaxis of HO in the knee joint.

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Collaboration types
Domestic collaboration
Web of Science research areas
Oncology
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