Bone Marrow Aspirated Concentrate (BMAC)

Bone marrow aspirated concentrate (BMAC) is an injection therapy used for the treatment of arthritic, painful joints. BMAC contains mesenchymal stem cells along with platelets to accelerate the healing process or provide cells where they are otherwise unavailable. It is most commonly used in knees, hips and shoulders, but can be used in other joints and spinal discs as well. It is best suited for patients who have failed more traditional treatments for osteoarthritis (anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, bracing, steroid injection, viscosupplemantation) and would like to avoid or postpone a total joint replacement. Some patients may consider this treatment if they are not considered to be a good candidate for a joint replacement because of other medical conditions.

How Is BMAC Prepared?

The bone marrow is aspirated from the iliac crest (hip bone) through a needle and then placed in a centrifuge to concentrate the stem cells. Typically, 5-10 ml of the BMAC remain for injection. The BMAC concentrate is then injected in the painful, arthritic joint precisely under image guidance (typically ultrasound or x-ray fluoroscopy). This is all done in one setting. It typically takes 45-60 minutes to complete the entire procedure.

How Could BMAC Be Used for My Treatment?

BMAC injections utilize your own, concentrated bone marrow to promote healing of arthritic joints and intervertebral discs in the spine by using the natural healing potential of the body’s stem cells. Clinical studies have shown that BMAC injections can decrease pain for prolonged periods of time with minimal down time.

Is BMAC Safe?

BMAC is a relatively new treatment for osteoarthritis, but has been used clinically for over a decade with minimal side effects. Aside from typical procedure discomfort and occasional short term post-procedure pain, side effects and complications are minimal. The risk of infection is smaller than with other type of injections because the contents of BMAC naturally counteract any infection. BMAC is prepared and injected under direct physician supervision.

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