Heterotopic ossification associated with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (infuse) in posterolateral lumbar spine fusion: a case report.

Methods: A case of heterotopic ossification in the lumbar spine associated with the off-label use of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) is reported. Objective: To highlight a previously unreported complication of rhBMP-2 use and to review the literature pertinent to the topic.

Background: There is no report in the literature regarding a large mass of rhBMP-2-associated heterotopic ossification surrounding the paraspinal musculature.

Methods: The clinical and radiographical features of this complication and treatment course are presented.

Results: The surgical excision of heterotopic ossification and removal of symptomatic instrumentation have resulted in the patient remaining asymptomatic at 1 year of follow-up examination.

Conclusions: The reported case adds to the literature of off-label use of rhBMP-2 and the potential for the formation of heterotopic ossification with its use.