Biological therapies (biologics)
What is it?
Biological therapies or biologics include stem cell therapy (including bone marrow aspirate concentration) and platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy. These are all relatively new treatments that may be used in selected cases to treat early arthritis and localised cartilage damage/defects in the hip and knee. They are also used for chronic tendonitis/inflammation of tendons, including the hamstring and gluteal tendons around the hip.
Diagnosis and treatment options
At your initial consultation, you may need diagnostic tests which will help your consultant decide the most appropriate treatment option for you. This will be fully discussed with you during your appointment.
You might need tests such as X-rays, CT and MRI scans.
Your specialist can offer different types of biologics treatments:
Potential Complications of Biological Therapies
Biological therapies are generally considered to be safe but all procedures carry some risk. Specific complications of your procedure will be discussed with you ahead of the procedure.
There are standard risks associated with any injection therapy such as infection, localised inflammation, transient numbness from local anaesthetic injection and pain. There is no risk of allergic reaction as the patient’s own cells are used.