Heterotopic Ossification around the Knee after Internal Fixation of a Complex Tibial Plateau Fracture Combined with the Use of Demineralized Bone Matrix (DBM): A Case Report

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Demineralized bone matrix has been successfully commercialized as an alternative bone graft material that not only can function as filler but also as an osteoinductive graft. Numerous studies have confirmed its beneficial use in clinical practice. Heterotopic ossification after internal fixation combined with the use of demineralized bone matrix has not been widely reported. In this paper we describe a 39 year old male who sustained a complex articular fracture that developed clinically significant heterotopic ossification after internal fixation with added demineralized bone matrix. Although we cannot be sure that there is a cause-and-effect relation between demineralized bone matrix and the excessive heterotopic ossification seen in our patient, it seems that some caution in using demineralised bone matrix in similar cases is warranted. Also, given the known inter- and intraproduct variability, the risks and benefits of these products should be carefully weighed.