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StatPearls, LLC

  • Arthroplasty, Replacement
  • Brain Injuries, Traumatic
  • Hypoxia
  • Ossification, Heterotopic
  • Range of Motion, Articular

Heterotopic Ossification

Heterotopic ossification is a pathological process characterized by the formation of mature, lamellar bone within extraskeletal soft tissues where bone does not normally develop. This condition is frequently observed in the rehabilitation population and is most often associated with significant trauma or neurologic injury. Common at-risk populations include individuals with burns, strokes, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, traumatic amputations, and those undergoing joint replacement surgery. The underlying pathophysiology involves inappropriate differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into osteoblasts, often triggered by inflammation, tissue hypoxia, and neural injury. Clinically, heterotopic ossification may present with pain, swelling, decreased range of motion, and progressive joint stiffness, which can significantly impair functional recovery. Early recognition is critical, as timely intervention may limit progression and reduce long-term disability. Evaluation typically involves clinical assessment supported by imaging and laboratory findings, while management may include pharmacologic prophylaxis, physical therapy interventions, and, in select cases, surgical excision. Throughout the course, the participant gains a structured understanding of the pathophysiology, evaluation, and management strategies for heterotopic ossification. Emphasis is placed on identifying early clinical signs, differentiating heterotopic ossification from other causes of joint restriction, and applying evidence-based interventions within a rehabilitation setting. The course highlights the importance of interprofessional collaboration, as optimal management often requires coordinated input from clinicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, nurses, and pharmacists. Collaboration among these professionals supports comprehensive care planning, appropriate medication use, safe progression of mobility and range-of-motion activities, and timely referral for…

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.

Credit types

AAPA Category 1 Credit™Up to 2 creditsAMA PRA Category 1 Credit™Up to 2 creditsNursingUp to 2 creditsPharmacyUp to 2 credits

MOC types

ABS — Accredited CMEUp to 2 pointsABOS — Accredited CMEUp to 2 pointsABPATH — Lifelong LearningUp to 2 pointsABPMR — Accredited CMEUp to 2 pointsABTS — Accredited CMEUp to 2 pointsABIM — Medical KnowledgeUp to 2 pointsABS — Self-AssessmentUp to 2 pointsABP — Lifelong Learning and Self-AssessmentUp to 2 pointsABPMR — Self-AssessmentUp to 2 pointsABTS — Self-AssessmentUp to 2 points

FDA REMS

No

Qualifies for MIPS

No

Target Specialties

Cross-Specialty

Relevant across 11 specialties.

Pricing

Fee varies

This provider typically $49–98

See fees on statpearls.com

Listed by the provider

  • Article / monograph / reference
  • Credit · Up to 2 credits
  • MOC · Up to 2 points
  • Fee varies · this provider typically $49–98
  • Released
    Sep 1, 2026
  • Last day to claim credit
    Sep 1, 2029 3 years left

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