Knee Arthritis Responds To Advanced Stem Cell Therapy

By Rodney B. Dade, MD

Painful knee arthritis develops as the cartilage in the joint space begins to deteriorate. Typically treated with invasive surgical procedures, there are now innovative procedures that offer patients alternative treatment options. Designed to address the root cause of the condition, there is a new line of advanced biological treatments using Regenexx protocols, built upon the proven medical success of using the body's own stem cells and blood platelets to stimulate the growth of new cartilage.

Stem Cell Therapy The Process

A series of injections use the body's own supply of stem cells to help repair injured and degenerated tissues. This treatment combines all of the regenerative procedures in a systematic protocol designed to enhance the effectiveness of the stem cells. The process starts with a pre-injection performed 2-5 days prior to the stem cell procedure. The stem cells are aspirated from the hip area, under ultrasound or x-ray guidance. Patients typically tolerate this procedure well.

After the bone marrow is aspirated, the sample is processed to concentrate and purify the stem cells. This technique allows the physician to customize the stem cells to meet the specific needs of the individual. Utilizing either fluoroscopy or ultrasound, the physician precisely places the stem cells in the injured site to improve the likelihood that they will adhere to the damaged area and promote healing. After the stem cells are placed, concentrated platelets and other adjuvants are injected to stimulate the stem cells to multiply, and then transform into the repair cells needed to regenerate new cartilage. The platelets are injected again 2-5 days later to keep the stem cells activated and promote additional healing.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

Platelets initiate tissue repair by releasing growth factors. These growth factors start the healing process by attracting repair cells to the injured site, including stem cells. Platelet Rich Plasma therapy intensifies this process by delivering a higher concentration of platelets. The therapy involves obtaining a sample of the patient's blood. This sample is processed, manually, in an on-site laboratory to yield a more concentrated and more pure product. The PRP is then injected into and around the point of injury, significantly strengthening the body's natural healing process.

A new, more advanced regenerative therapy is now available using the Regenexx SCP protocol producing PRP that is free of contaminating red and white cells, which can inhibit repair. This same special process allows a physician to customize the concentration and volume for each patient and each injury type.

A Real Solution To Regain Knee Function

These regenerative treatments offer a revolutionary way to slow the progression of knee arthritis, regenerate lost or damaged tissue, significantly reduce pain, and restore knee function and mobility. An initial evaluation will determine which regenerative therapy is most beneficial for a patient's specific condition. A customized plan is developed using one or more of the treatments to obtain the best patient outcomes possible as well as viable options to invasive surgical procedures for patients identified as candidates for regenerative procedures. Sometimes combined with short-term knee bracing and physical therapy, the effects of this approach can be greatly amplified to restore quality of life to most patients.