Whether due to anesthesia fears, potential complications of the procedure, or underlying health concerns, many patients want to avoid surgery. Surgery used to be the sole treatment option for many conditions and injuries. Now, we have regenerative medicine, which enables patients to make a full recovery without undergoing surgery.
Regenerative Treatment Options
The main regenerative treatment options available today are platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy. These advanced therapies work by stimulating and supporting the body’s own healing process to relieve pain and other symptoms. Plus, both PRP and stem cells are derived from the patient’s own body, which provides superior safety.
- Platelet-rich plasma
In PRP treatment, the patient’s blood is extracted and spun at high velocities to concentrate the platelets, which contain growth factors. The concentrated platelets are then injected into the treatment area. The platelets support healing in the injured area in the four to six weeks after the initial injection(s). Patients notice less pain and improved function that can last for many years.
- Stem cell therapy
In stem cell therapy, your doctor will collect stem cells either by taking fat cells from the abdomen or by aspirating bone marrow at the back of the pelvis. These forms of aspiration can be completed comfortably in an office setting with local anesthesia. Once taken from the patient, the aspirate is spun in a centrifuge to isolate the stem cells. The concentration of stem cells is then injected into the treatment area with platelets as directors. In the weeks following the treatment, the stem cells will help repair damaged cells for reduced pain and improved function.
Regenerative Medicine to Avoid Surgery
Regenerative treatments are considered minimally invasive, cause only minor side effects (if any), and require little to no recovery downtime. For patients looking to recover from persistent injuries or pain from certain chronic conditions, regenerative medicine can help them avoid lengthy recovery periods and the need for prescription pain medications.
To learn if regenerative medicine could help you achieve lasting pain relief, schedule a consultation at the Regenerative Orthopedic Institute today!