We are dealing in a field of science that aims to restore or establish normal functional capacity and eliminate, certainly reduce pain from arthritic inflammation by replacing or influencing human cells. Advances in cell biology have led to new options for cellular therapies and new strategies to stimulate endogenous repair and regeneration. Stem Cell populations have been identified in perinatal and adult tissues including amniotic fluid, placenta, bone marrow, and blood vessels. The US Department of Health and Human Services, in its report “2020: A New Vision-A Future for Regenerative Medicine” published in 2006, calls regenerative medicine “the next evolution of medical treatments” and predicts that regenerative medicine will be the “vanguard of 21st century healthcare.”
So what about costs and reimbursements? Government has made it clear that there is a relative lack of clinical science in this area and it will not pay at this time. We at Regenexx are making progress in gathering data and educating our patients and the medical profession as how to postpone or perhaps eliminate the need for a joint replacement when the symptoms and functional limitations of arthritis affect an individual. We believe that our data documents that Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate does reverse the course of osteoarthritis, relieve symptoms, restore function and allow the patient an improved recreational and athletic capacity. As an orthopedic surgeon dealing with a mixed patient population, I strive to deliver what matters most and that which will make the most profound difference in a patient’s life. First and foremost is the history and physical examination in the office. I won’t treat an image. For instance, a study presented at the recent Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons found a high incidence of Superior Labral Tears diagnosed by MRI in patients without shoulder symptoms or functional shoulder limitation. While the image was abnormal, the patient wasn’t limited in any functional way nor did they have a shoulder related complaint.
This morning, I am working on the scientific paper, I will be delivering at the June Meeting of the Ortho and Biologic Institute which is attended by the majority of scientists and clinicians involved in skeletal muscular Regenerative Medicine. It will scientifically and statistically document our successes; at Regenexx, we integrate clinical care with research and education. It is evidence based medicine helping to mold the future of Regenerative Medicine.
Tags: arthritis, athletes, bone marrow, Bone Marrow Concentrate, Clinical Trial. Mitchell B. Sheinkop, FDA, Hip Replacement, Interventional Orthopedics, joint replacement, Knee, Mature Athlete, medicine, Orthopedic Care, Orthopedics, Osteoarthritis, Pain Management, Regenerative, shoulder, stem cells, treatment