Autologous Therapies

Bone Marrow Aspirate (BMA) Therapy

The patient's own stem cells harvested and injected into damaged joints, a regenerative option for patients looking to delay or avoid joint replacement.

Autologous

Procedure Overview

Joint replacement is not always the only path forward for advanced osteoarthritis or cartilage damage. Bone marrow aspirate therapy uses your own stem cells to promote genuine tissue regeneration inside the affected joint, addressing the damage directly rather than replacing the joint entirely. For the right patient, it can meaningfully extend the life of the joint.

Treatment Purpose

BMA therapy harvests the patient's own stem cells and growth factors from bone marrow, concentrates them, and injects them directly into the damaged joint or tissue. Stem cells promote cartilage repair, reduce inflammation, and slow the progression of degenerative disease, all using materials entirely from your own body.

Appropriate Conditions

Osteoarthritis of the knee, hip, and shoulder
Partial tendon and ligament tears
Cartilage damage and degeneration
Avascular necrosis

Patient Considerations

Local anesthesia is applied at the harvest site before the procedure begins. Patients feel mild pressure during the aspiration, not sharp pain. Temporary soreness at the harvest site typically resolves within a few days. The entire procedure, including both harvesting and injection, is performed on an outpatient basis and takes 45 to 60 minutes.

Treatment Process

Bone marrow is aspirated from the iliac crest using a specialized needle under local anesthesia. The aspirate is centrifuged to concentrate stem cells and growth factors, then injected into the target area under imaging guidance. You go home the same day. Regenerative improvement typically develops over 4 to 8 weeks, with full benefit at 3 to 6 months as tissue repair progresses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any risk of rejection?

No. BMA therapy uses your own cells, so there is no risk of rejection or allergic reaction.

When will I feel the results?

Improvement typically develops over 4 to 8 weeks, with full benefit at 3 to 6 months.

What are the risks?

Very low risk. Rare complications include infection or temporary soreness at the harvest or injection site.

Medical disclaimer: This page provides general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace an evaluation by a qualified physician. Talk with a doctor about your specific condition and treatment options. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

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