Orthobiologics
What are Orthobiologics?
Orthobiologics are natural substances such as cells, tissue, blood components, and growth factors that are harnessed to aid in the treatment of orthopedic injuries or conditions. They may be used to replace lost tissue, stimulate regeneration and healing, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve joint function.
Orthobiologics may be obtained from your own body or from a donor. They may be administered in the form of injections or may require a surgical procedure. They may be used alone as a conservative treatment or following orthopedic surgery to enhance results.
What are the Conditions Treated by Orthobiologics?
Orthobiologics can be used to treat:
- Articular cartilage injuries
- Early osteoarthritis
- Ligament injuries
- Tendon injuries
When is Orthobiologics Recommended?
Orthobiologics may be recommended when rest, medications, and physical therapy fail to relieve symptoms.
What are the Different Types of Orthobiologics?
The different types of orthobiologics include the following:
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
PRP is obtained from your own blood after it has been processed to concentrate platelets and certain white blood cells that enhance healing and reduce inflammation. PRP may be injected directly into the damaged tissue during an outpatient procedure or following repair surgery.
Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cells are present in all of us acting like a repair system for the body. However, with increased age sometimes the optimum amount of stem cells are not delivered to the injured area. The goal of Stem Cell therapy is to amplify the natural repair system of the patient’s body.
Bone Marrow Aspiration Concentrate (BMAC)
BMAC is obtained after processing bone marrow that is removed from your pelvic bone. BMAC is rich in stem cells, which produce proteins and growth factors necessary for healing and reducing inflammation.
Adipose Tissue
Adipose tissue or fat cells have remarkable healing and regenerative properties. It is typically obtained from your waist, processed to remove impurities and inflammatory components, and then injected at the site of injury.
Cartilage Transplantation
Cartilage transplantation is a procedure to restore articular cartilage in a joint by transplanting it from another region of your body or using cartilage from a donor. Articular cartilage is the white tissue lining the ends of bones that form joints. It acts as cushioning material and helps in the smooth gliding of bones during movement. Articular cartilage damaged by injury or early osteoarthritis is replaced during this procedure.
