Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate

Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) is a non-surgical Regenerative Procedure (CellularTherapy) that helps accelerate healing in patients who suffer from orthopedic conditions, especially osteoarthritis and cartilage injuries. BMAC is a concentrate of regenerative cells obtained from a patient’s own bone marrow, and like PRP, utilizes the body’s intrinsic healing potential. With the appropriate expertise this procedure can be done with minimal discomfort. There is basic science and a case series research that demonstrates the potential effectiveness of these treatments in patients suffering from arthritis of various joints, especially the knee joint.

How it Works

Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate is best for patient’s with moderate to severe orthopedic injuries, since the bone marrow contains a rich reservoir of regenerative cells. When injury occurs, there are usually inadequate supplies of regenerative cells needed to repair the body. These regenerative cells taken from the bone marrow can actually replicate themselves into various types of tissue. This in turn gives the patient a robust super concentrated mixture of regenerative cells that have very accelerated healing abilities that repair and aid in growth in the damaged area.

The Procedure

The patient’s regenerative cells from their bone marrow is removed by the physician (with usually a local anesthetic to minimize any discomfort) and is put into a centrifuge to generate a highly concentrated mixture (which we test/count). This will then be then injected into the injured area on the same day. Post-injection soreness at the injured area that was injected can result, but usually resolves in a few days. As always, it’s important to stay away from all Anti-Inflammatory medications like Ibuprofen, Naproxen and Aspirin since they will interfere with the healing process started by the post-injection inflammation.

Healing Process

Swelling and discomfort is typical of the first 1-3 days after a BMAC procedure. After about a weeks time, the patient can begin physical therapy in order to speed up recovery and to get the full benefit of the procedure. Most patients see some level of improvement (increased strength and stability) in 2-6 weeks time. Over the course of 3 months prior to the injections, patients who are able (specifically ones who are in a rehab program and are remaining active in order to further strengthen their muscles) do experience more recovery benefits.

Benefits

Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate is usually for patients who have more moderate to severe orthopedic conditions like Osteoarthritis and Ligament/Tendon tears. However, it can also treat Meniscus Tears, Hip Pain, Knee Pain, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer’s Elbow, Achilles Tendinitis, Wrist/Hand Pain and the Spine.

Links

• What is BMAC?