What are Growth Factors?
Orthopedic procedures, whether surgical or non-surgical, aim to repair and regenerate damaged tissues. Increasingly, doctors are turning to growth factors derived from the body’s own resources, like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and bone marrow concentrate (BMC), to enhance healing and improve outcomes. These concentrated sources of growth factors act as powerful signaling molecules that stimulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and tissue regeneration. In essence, they amplify the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
Where Are Growth Factors Sourced and Used in Orthobiologics?
PRP, derived from a patient’s blood, is rich in growth factors that promote soft tissue repair, making it beneficial for conditions like tendonitis and ligament injuries. BMC, extracted from bone marrow, contains an even broader spectrum of growth factors and stem cells that can stimulate bone and cartilage regeneration, aiding in the treatment of fractures and osteoarthritis.
The application of growth factors in orthopedics is widespread and continues to expand. PRP injections are commonly used to treat tendon and ligament injuries, such as tennis elbow or Achilles tendinitis. They can also be used to accelerate healing after surgery or to promote hair growth in cases of androgenetic alopecia. BMC, with its potent combination of growth factors and stem cells, is particularly effective in promoting bone healing in cases of non-union fractures or bone defects. It is also used in cartilage repair procedures for osteoarthritis, aiming to stimulate the growth of new cartilage and improve joint function.
Ongoing Research and Uses Show Promising Applications of Growth Factors
While the use of growth factors in orthopedics is promising, it’s important to note that research is ongoing. The optimal preparation methods, dosages, and injection techniques are still being refined. However, the existing evidence suggests that PRP and BMC can be valuable tools in the orthopedic surgeon’s arsenal, offering a natural and potentially more effective way to promote healing and improve patient outcomes. As research progresses and techniques are refined, we can expect to see even wider applications of these powerful therapies in the field of orthopedics.
The Takeaway?
Growth Factors are powerful and reside in your own body, making the power for healing accessible to you. Growth factors help Regenexx Physicians make true histological, or tissue, changes, rather than masking pain with steroid injections. If utilizing the power of growth factors sounds like it could help your orthopedic condition, please contact us to connect with one of our Physicians in office or via telehealth.