Biologics are cells, blood components, and other natural substances that promote healing and decrease inflammation. Biologics in orthopaedics represent the cutting edge of biomedical research and cover a wide range of therapies.
The doctors at Performance Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine may incorporate stem cell therapy into your orthopaedic treatment plan such as Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), Amnio, or Bone Marrow Aspirate (BMA).
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections utilize the patient’s own platelet growth factors to accelerate the healing of injured tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints. These injections are prepared by drawing the patient’s own blood and running it through a centrifuge to concentrate the PRP. The PRP is then injected directly into the injured body tissue.
PRP contains a high concentration of platelets and growth factors that enhance the body’s natural ability to heal, reduce inflammation, and accelerate the repair of damaged tendons and ligaments. The platelets and plasma portion of the blood contain many factors essential for cell recruitment required for healing.
Amniotic Fluid and tissue (Amnio) contain numerous growth factors which stimulate tissue growth and facilitate the healing process. It also contains naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agents that reduce inflammation and hyaluronic acid which lubricates joints and tendons, easing pain and restoring mobility.
The amniotic membrane and fluid are usually discarded after birth but, upon consent, can be sterilized and developed into biologic therapy and frozen for later use. This does not affect the baby or the delivery process and does not share the same ethical concerns as embryonic tissue.
Bone Marrow Aspirate (BMA) contains growth factors, platelets, and anti-inflammatory proteins which have been shown to promote bone and soft tissue healing as well as reduce swelling and relieve pain. It targets the root of the problem and attempts to heal the tissue.
Bone marrow is extracted from the patient’s bone and transferred through a filter and spun in a centrifuge. The spinning in the centrifuge separates the platelets and stem cells from the bone marrow sample. While BMA has some similarities to PRP, BMA may be reserved for more challenging cases such as moderate to severe osteoarthritis or when a bigger effect is needed.
