29 randomized controlled trials were selected for inclusion in this meta-analysis which compared the rates of heterotopic ossification after total hip arthroplasty between groups of patients treated with selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), groups treated with non-selective NSAIDS, and groups treated with placebo. Compared to placebo, both selective and non-selective NSAID groups demonstrated significantly lower rates of heterotopic ossification development. No significant difference between selective and non-selective NSAID groups was observed in the rate of heterotopic ossification development.