Regenerative medicine is a field of medicine that utilizes the bodies own cells to assist in the healing process. Over the past 20 years scientists and doctors have made tremendous advances perfecting techniques for tissue regeneration.
Laboratory and clinical research has shown it is possible to use enriched platelet plasma and/or adult stem cells to restore lost damaged or aging cells. Regenerative therapy’s including platelet enriched plasma and autologous stem cell therapy are beginning to show promise in the treatment of tendinitis osteoarthritis and degenerative spinal disorders.
Platelet enriched plasma is derived from the body’s own blood to facilitate the healing of tendon, ligament and joint injuries. A small amount of blood is taken and placed in a centrifuge to separate platelets and growth factors from the rest of the blood. This concentration is injected into the affected area to promote tissue healing. Injections can be repeated several times depending on the type and severity of the condition.
Adult stem cells are early-stage cell that under the right conditions are capable of developing into the type of cell needed to regenerate damaged tissue. Stem cells can differentiate into bone cartilage muscle or tendon. Autologous stem cells are obtained from the bone marrow in the hip bone. After aspirating the cells they are concentrated then delivered back into the area of tissue damage to aid in natural healing. Conditions that can be treated include mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the spine, hip, knee or shoulder as well as rotator cuff tears and knee meniscal tears.
Patients suffering from pain that want to avoid invasive surgery are potential candidates for stem cell replacement. Potential candidates require a history and physical examination, and imaging studies including x-ray series and MRI. Your physician will then determine if stem cell set therapy is appropriate for you.
