Biologic Treatments in Orthopedics
What are Biologic Treatments?
Biologic treatments use the body’s own cells, blood and other natural substances to promote the healing power within the body. In the past, doctors relied on the advances in surgical techniques in orthopedic medicine for treating patients. Today, biologic treatments have surged to the forefront of orthopedics, and are quickly becoming the cutting edge of treatment. Biologic treatments have demonstrated their regenerative potential and are used to treat a variety of medical conditions for which no other treatments are available. Dr. Benedict Nwachukwu, orthopedic biologics specialist now offers these treatments to patients in Manhattan, New York City and the surrounding New York boroughs.
How does a biologic treatment work?
The body comes equipped with its own ability to heal and can rebuild damaged tissue. Small proteins, called growth factors are used by the body to control the healing process. When a body is injured, it begins to rebuild and heal damaged tissue. Physicians have discovered that a specific type of stem cell, called Mesenchymal cells (MSCs) are specific to the musculoskeletal system. These specialized cells have the ability to differentiate into varying tissue types such as muscle, bone, tendon and ligament. Biologic treatments work by targeting specific chemicals and MSC cells involved in the body’s own treatment response, allowing them to work faster and to rebuild more quickly. The biologics are channeled to an injured site, causing the body to accelerate the healing process.
Aren’t all biologic treatments the same?
Dr. Nwachukwu has been at the forefront in the investigation of biologic therapies, carefully evaluating the different biologic treatments available. Patients in the New York area need to carefully evaluate whether their providers are using the most current and safest biologic options. Dr. Nwachukwu, has a track record of treatment and positive outcomes and he only recommends for the safest and most effective biologic option for each unique patient situation. Not all patients are the same so it would stand to reason that all treatments, especially with biologics, should be tailored to the individual by an experienced provider.
What biologic treatments are used in orthopedic medicine?
Dr. Nwachukwu can help patients in the New York area by offering the following biologic treatments:
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
- BMAC – Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate
- Lipogem / Adipose tissue
- Amniotic products
What orthopedic conditions can be treated with biologic therapy?
Some of the orthopedic conditions that have been shown to be successful when treated appropriately with biologics are:
- Ligament injuries
- Meniscal tears
- Cartilage Injuries
- Rotator Cuff Tears
- Soft tissue damage
- Tendonitis
- Joint inflammation and pain
- Articular cartilage injuries
- Joint instability
For more information about biologic treatments and how they can help your orthopedic injury or condition, please contact the offices of Dr. Benedict Nwachukwu, MD, orthopedic biologics specialist, serving Manhattan, New York City and surrounding New York boroughs.