J Korean Med Sci.  1998 Aug;13(4):431-433. 10.3346/jkms.1998.13.4.431.

Fracture originated at the tip of heterotopic ossification of femur by minor external force: report of two cases

• Yim SY
• Yoon SH
• Lee IY
• Rah UW
• Moon HW

• KMID: 1038173
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3346/jkms.1998.13.4.431

Abstract

Fracture of femur without evidence of severe osteoporosis rarely occurs as a result of minor external force such as a gentle passive or an active range of motion exercises. We report two cases of femoral shaft fracture occurred at the tip of heterotopic ossification of femur by a minor external force, in which the involved femur shows no evidence of remarkable osteoporosis. The possible mechanism inferred by authors is as follows: 1) heterotopic ossification limits range of motion of the hip joint; 2) a new lever arm is formed at the tip of heterotopic ossification where energy can be concentrated; 3) therefore, fractures develop even by a minor external force. Search for similar cases and further discussions on possible mechanisms and prevention of femoral fractures in patients with heterotopic ossification will be necessary.

MeSH Terms

Adult
Case Report
Femoral Fractures/radiography
Femoral Fractures/etiology*
Human
Male
Ossification, Heterotopic*