Orthobiologics
Bone Marrow Aspirate Procedures in Oklahoma City | Dr. Joseph Blythe
Dr. Joseph Blythe performs bone marrow aspirate-based procedures in an operating-room setting for carefully selected patients. These procedures are not a cure for arthritis and do not reliably rebuild cartilage or permanently reverse joint disease.
About Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC)
Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) is drawn from a patient's own iliac crest and contains a cellular composition that differs from PRP. The aspirate is processed to concentrate mesenchymal progenitor cells, platelets, and growth factors before injection into the target joint or soft-tissue structure.
BMAC procedures are performed in an operating-room setting and are reserved for carefully selected patients based on diagnosis, clinical evaluation, and the available evidence. The OR setting distinguishes this procedure from office-based injections and reflects the harvest technique required to obtain bone marrow safely.
Patient selection, the specific procedure, facility requirements, and pricing are discussed at consultation. An orthopedic evaluation is required before any bone marrow aspirate procedure is recommended.
BMAC vs. PRP — key differences
BMAC
Harvested from the patient's iliac crest in an OR setting. Contains mesenchymal progenitor cells, platelets, and growth factors. Requires a surgical harvest procedure.
PRP / PRFM (SELPHYL®)
Prepared from a blood draw at the time of the procedure. Concentrates platelets and growth factors. Office-based; no OR required.
See also: SELPHYL PRP injections in Oklahoma City and Orthobiologics overview.
Conditions Evaluated for BMAC in Oklahoma City
Bone marrow aspirate concentrate may be considered as an adjunct in selected patients with the following conditions. Evaluation includes imaging, prior treatment history, and the specific anatomy involved.
Knee osteoarthritis and cartilage defects
Selected patients with knee osteoarthritis or focal cartilage defects who are not yet candidates for total knee replacement may be evaluated for BMAC as an adjunct option. BMAC does not reliably rebuild cartilage or reverse advanced joint disease.
Rotator cuff and shoulder conditions
Selected patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy or shoulder osteoarthritis may be evaluated. BMAC is not a substitute for surgical repair of full-thickness rotator cuff tears in appropriate surgical candidates.
Sacroiliac joint degeneration
Patients with confirmed sacroiliac joint degeneration who are not yet candidates for SI joint fusion may be evaluated for BMAC injection as a temporizing measure.
Other joint and soft-tissue conditions
Other musculoskeletal conditions may be considered when supported by the diagnosis, anatomy, and available clinical evidence. Dr. Blythe will advise whether BMAC is appropriate for your specific diagnosis at your evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Selected references
- Centeno CJ, et al. Increased knee cartilage volume in degenerative joint disease using percutaneously implanted, autologous mesenchymal stem cells. Pain Physician. 2008.
- Hernigou P, et al. Percutaneous injection of autologous bone marrow concentrate cells in early osteonecrosis of the femoral head. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2002.
- FDA: Regulatory Considerations for Human Cells, Tissues, and Cellular and Tissue-Based Products (HCT/Ps).
- Shapiro SA, et al. A prospective, single-blind, placebo-controlled trial of bone marrow aspirate concentrate for knee osteoarthritis. Am J Sports Med. 2017.
Schedule a Consultation
An orthopedic evaluation is required before any bone marrow aspirate procedure is recommended. Call the office or submit a request online.