Heterotopic ossification: an unusual presentation

Abstract

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is usually seen after-trauma, following traumatic injuries, surgeries involving major joints, neurogenic injury, and burns; however, atraumatic cases have also been reported. HO tends to cause pain, swelling, and limitation of joint movements. HO has been reported in adults as well as in pediatric cases, however, our search in the English literature has not revealed a single case in the infratemporal region, especially in children of developing age, where HO tends to affect the development and growth of adjacent bones. We are reporting a case of HO in close proximity to TMJ affecting the development of mandible and maxilla.

Figure 1

Preoperative frontal view.

Figure 2

Deviated and restricted mouth opening.

Figure 3

(a) Intraoral photograph showing the mass, (b) irritational Fibroma.

Figure 4

Computed tomography-lateral view.

Figure 5

Computed tomography-frontal view.

Figure 6

Intraoperative photograph showing excision of the lesion.

Figure 7

Excised osseous mass and soft tissue.

Figure 8

Adequate mouth opening postoperatively.