The prevention of heterotopic ossification in high-risk patients by low-dose radiation therapy after total hip arthroplasty.

A prospective study was done to evaluate the efficacy of treatment with 1,000 rads of radiation in the prevention of heterotopic ossification after total hip arthroplasty in patients who are at high risk. In a previous prospective study, patients who were at high risk for heterotopic ossification after total hip arthroplasty were identified and an effective regimen for its prevention was established. It was demonstrated that treatment with 2,000 rads of radiation that was initiated within four days after the total hip arthroplasty was highly effective in the prevention of heterotopic ossification and in the prevention of recurrence after resection of existing ossification. In the present study, 1,000 rads of radiation was administered in increments of 200 rads over a period of five to seven days and was as effective as treatment with 2,000 rads. The protocol of 1,000 rads is preferable because it reduces the risk of malignancy and the duration of hospitalization.