Objective To review the research progress of heterotopic ossification (HO) pathogenesis.Methods Recent articles about HO including the risk factors and pathogenesis were reviewed and comprehensively analyzed. Results The pathogenesis of HO is not completely understood, but the extracellular factors, signaling pathways, and transcription factors in the pathogenesis of HO are understood deeply, such as bone morphogenic protein, Smad signaling, and core binding factor α1/runt-related transcription factor 2, which are probably involved in HO. Furthermore, some related microRNAs are also probably involved in HO. Conclusion The pathogenesis of HO should be further investigated so as to lay a foundation for preventing and treating HO.
Repair of bone defect by compound of bone morphogenic protein (BMP) and its prior bone matrix gelatin (BMG) was compared with repair by BMP with hydroxyapatite(HA). The results showed that the BMP/BMG group was found fibrous callus in the bone defect in 4th week. In 8th week a large quantity of osseos trabecula was found. In 12th week the BMP was absorbed completely and was replaced by newly formed bone. In 16th week the recanalization appeared in the bone cavity. While in the BMP/HA group, although the fibrous callus was appeared in the 4th and 8th weeks, the HA was not absorbed. In the 12th and 16th weeks the change was similar to that in the 8th week and no recanalization of bone marrow cavity. It was suggested the BMP/BMG compound might be an ideal material to repair the bone defect.