Orthobiologics
Orthobiologics is a continuously evolving field that has become intertwined in contemporary orthopedic surgery practices and sports medicine. These substances allow physicians to provide alternative options to help repair musculoskeletal injuries that may not be treated conventionally.
When considering non-surgical treatment for orthopedic injuries, this regenerative medicine may be the most effective solution. Contact the orthobiologics doctors at ProOrtho today to learn more.
What is Orthobiologics?
Orthobiologics are substances that are already found within the body that can be used to help heal itself. When an injury occurs, blood flushes to the area that was injured. This is the first step of the body’s natural healing response – the blood brings healing factors to the affected location. Orthobiologics experts intentionally bring those healing factors to the injury site in a similar way.
The treatment works as an alternative to surgical treatment or artificial replacement, by strategically injecting concentrations of the substances into the injured area to stimulate the recovery process or even replenish dying cells, helping bones and tissue heal.
Common types of orthobiologics include:
- Stem cell therapy – stem cells are undeveloped cells within the body that can develop into the cells surrounding them, potentially providing the kind of cell an injured body part needs to recover.
- PRP (platelet rich plasma) – a patented process where a portion of blood with a high platelet concentration is drawn and reinjected to the injury.
Overall, by utilizing alternative biological technologies when appropriate, surgeons can address cartilage defects, nonunion of bones, inflammation, fractures, previously irreparable injuries like tendon tears, and more. Opting for less-conventional techniques like orthobiologics can aid patients suffering from bone, cartilage and soft tissue loss and injury.
Ask ProOrtho’s doctors about what treatment may be right for you.
