Stem Cell & Biologic Therapies
Dr. Islam uses stem cell and biologic therapies in his practice both to help patients avoid the need for surgery and to promote healing in patients who have undergone surgery.
Though these are treatments are relatively new compared to other treatments for orthopaedic conditions, they have produced great results in promoting healing and reducing pain for patients. In combination with medications and physical therapy, stem cell and biologic therapies have helped patients recover more quickly from injuries. These treatments are often used by athletes to help them return to play sooner.
What Are Stem Cell and Biologic Therapies?
There are different forms of biologic therapy treatments available to patients. Currently, Dr. Islam offers platelet rich plasma (PRP), bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC), amnion, and stem cell therapies to his patients. Most of these procedures promote an inflammatory response in the body, triggering the body’s normal healing mechanisms. This, in turn, promotes healing in the area.
Below, you can find a brief description of the biologic therapies offered by Dr. Islam, and how each of them work.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) treatments use the patient’s own blood platelets to promote healing. PRP is rich in proteins called growth factors that help stimulate tissue healing. First, a blood sample is drawn from the patient in the same fashion as a routine lab draw. This blood is then placed in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from the other blood components. This process produces plasma with a high concentration of platelets, which is then injected into the damaged tissue.
Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC)
Bone marrow elements are rich in growth factors and potentially stem cells, making them an excellent option to promote healing. To obtain bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC), Dr. Islam first extracts bone marrow from the patient during an in-office procedure, using minimally invasive techniques. The bone marrow elements are then injected into the patient’s damaged tissue to promote healing and improved function.
Amnion Treatments
Amnion treatments consist of fluid obtained from the donated placenta of elective c-sections. This fluid is rich in growth factors that stimulate a healing response in tissues. This fluid can be injected into the damaged tissue to help promote healing.
Stem Cell Injections
Stem cells are cells within the body that are capable of differentiating, or turning into another type of cell. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are cells that can differentiate into cells that make up tissues, such as cartilage, tendon and bone. Since these are the types of tissues that are affected by orthopaedic problems, MSCs are commonly used in orthopaedic treatment. Stem cells can be injected into damaged tissues or joints to promote increased function and decreased pain. The use of embryonic stem cells is prohibited at TriHealth.
What Conditions Can Be Treated with Biologic Therapies?
Dr. Islam uses biologic therapies in treatment of the following conditions:
- Achilles tendinitis
- Arthritis of the joints
- Knee pain
- Ligament sprains
- Muscle strains
- Plantar fasciitis
- Rotator cuff injuries & shoulder pain
- Tendinitis or tendinosis
- Tennis elbow
When Do Biologic Treatments Start Working?
Because biologic treatments initially create an inflammatory response, most patients experience some degree of pain for the first week or two after treatment. This can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications, and occasionally prescription medication. However, patients must avoid taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) for a week prior to the procedure and two weeks after.
Most patients begin to notice improvement within a few weeks of the treatment. However, in some cases, patients may need multiple treatments to get the full effects of treatment.
Stem Cell & Biologic Therapies in Cincinnati, OH and Surrounding Communities
Dr. Andrew Islam offers stem cell and biologic therapies in his practice both to help patients avoid surgery and promote healing in patients who have undergone surgery. Dr. Islam completed a fellowship at the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic Foundation, where he gained extensive experience in the specialized care of athletes. If you would like to learn more about stem cell and biologic therapies, or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Islam, please call one of his four office locations or fill out our appointment request form.