How Regenerative Medicine is Transforming Orthopedic Treatment

What is regenerative orthopedics, and how is it used to treat orthopedic conditions non-surgically?

Regenerative orthopedic procedures, such as BMAC (bone marrow aspirate concentrate), commonly referred to as stem cell therapy, and platelet-rich-plasma (PRP), involve extracting healing cells from the patient’s blood or bone marrow, condensing them, and then injecting them directly into the damaged tissue using ultrasound guidance. Platelets found in PRP stimulate local stem cells in various tissues and utilize growth factors and nutrients for tissue enrichment and healing. Similarly, BMAC extracts stem cells from the bone marrow, which are then injected into the damaged tissue, where they have the remarkable ability to facilitate the generation of healthy cells. These procedures nourish tissue for accelerated healing, utilizing concentrated injections containing millions, or even billions, of cells. Unlike traditional treatments that often manage symptoms, regenerative medicine targets the underlying cause of orthopedic conditions, providing patients with more comprehensive and longer-lasting relief.

What conditions do you commonly treat with regenerative medicine?

Regenerative orthopedics can be effective for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions characterized by damage to soft tissue. These conditions can be caused by acute injury or degeneration of the tissue in our joints. Ligament tears and tendon injuries are common conditions, along with meniscus tears to the knee. The injuries often occur in athletic activity and can also be caused by overuse, such as golfer’s elbow. As we age, our collagenous tissue becomes more brittle, increasing the risk of injury. Osteoarthritis is a common condition that occurs among older individuals when the articular cartilage covering the end of the bones deteriorates, causing the bones to rub together and create painful friction.

What are the potential benefits and risks associated with treatments?

Regenerative medicine offers long-term solutions for tissue repair and regeneration, potentially eliminating the need for surgery, medication, or corticosteroid injections. Time and time again research has shown that corticosteroid injections accelerate the loss of cartilage and cause tissue damage. Additionally, regenerative medicine offers less risk and shorter recovery times as compared to surgery. While regenerative medicine treatments carry some risks and potential side effects, serious adverse events are rare, particularly when administered by experienced healthcare providers.

How soon can patients expect results from regenerative medicine injections, and how long-lasting are the effects?

The timeline for seeing results from regenerative medicine injections can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition being treated and individual factors such as age and overall health. Some patients may experience improvement within a few weeks of treatment, while others may take several months to see significant results. In general, the effects of regenerative medicine treatments are long-lasting, with many patients experiencing sustained relief years after treatment.

What should patients consider when choosing a regenerative medicine provider?

Patients should look for providers who are experienced and qualified in regenerative medicine techniques, preferably with specialized training or certification in the field. It is also important to verify that the provider follows strict safety protocols and utilizes ultrasound and fluoroscopic guidance when performing the procedures.