A novel rat model of heterotopic ossification after polytrauma with traumatic brain injury

Abstract

Neurological heterotopic ossification (NHO) is characterized by abnormal bone growth in soft tissue and joints in response to injury to the central nervous system. The ectopic bone frequently causes pain, restricts mobility, and decreases the quality of life for those affected. NHO commonly develops in severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients, particularly in the presence of concomitant musculoskeletal injuries (i.e. polytrauma). There are currently no animal models that accurately mimic these combinations of injuries, which has limited our understanding of NHO pathobiology, as well as the development of biomarkers and treatments, in TBI patients. In order to address this shortcoming, he..