The word “autologous” refers to stem cells and growth factors harvested from a patient’s own body and reinjected into a specific location.
Autologous Allograft therapy targets a particular kind of stem cell, called the “mesenchymal” stem cell, which is the scientific name for a stem cell capable of differentiating into diverse forms of musculoskeletal tissue, and capable of controlling the growth and organization of musculoskeletal tissue through growth factor release. Currently, mesenchymal stem cells can be harvested from either the bone marrow or the adipose tissue of the patient.
Autologous Allograft: Bone Marrow Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Bone marrow is the spongy tissue found inside bones. It contains cells with a relatively large concentration of mesenchymal stem cells in addition to hematopoietic stem cells that produce white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.
Using a simple surgical procedure in the office, employing a sterile in-office technique with ultrasound guidance, an aspirate is taken from inside the patient’s bone marrow. From this aspirate, mesenchymal stem cells are then concentrated with a special centrifuge. These cells are then reinjected into precise musculoskeletal areas using ultrasound guidance when necessary.
Autologous Allograft: Adipose Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Adipose tissue contains mesenchymal stem cells embedded within the extracellular matrix, along with the regular adipose cells.
Using a modified liposuction technique, along with cellular micro filtration, the fat derived mesenchymal stem cells are concentrated. These concentrated stem cells are then reinjected into precise musculoskeletal areas using ultrasound guidance when necessary.
Evidence-informed treatment options with Autologous Allograft.
Following patient-specific, physician-led orthobiologic consultation and evaluation of peer-reviewed and published evidence.
Back & Neck Pain
Osteoarthritis
Sports Injury
Chronic Ligament Pain
Rotator Cuff Injury
Knee Arthritis & Meniscal Tears
Plantar Fasciitis
Ankle Sprains/Arthritis
Chronic Strain
Chronic Tendonitis
Carpal Tunnel
Please contact us or schedule an appointment for an initial consultation to see if you are a good candidate for our autologous allograft therapy at Hawaii Island Stem Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “autologous” mean?
Autologous means the stem cells and growth factors used in treatment are harvested from the patient’s own body, then concentrated and reinjected into the treatment site.
What type of stem cell is used in autologous allograft therapy?
Treatment targets mesenchymal stem cells, which are capable of differentiating into various forms of musculoskeletal tissue and directing tissue growth and repair through growth factor release.
Where are the stem cells harvested from?
Mesenchymal stem cells can be harvested from either bone marrow, using an ultrasound-guided aspirate from inside the bone, or from adipose (fat) tissue, using a modified liposuction technique.
Is the bone marrow harvesting procedure done in-office?
Yes. It is a simple surgical procedure performed in the office using sterile and aseptic technique with ultrasound guidance.
What conditions is autologous allograft therapy used for?
According to standards governing the practice of medicine, our physician will perform a patient specific consultation to review available evidence for existing treatment options, based on the current body of peer reviewed and published research.
Who is typically the best candidate for this therapy?
Published research suggests orthobiologic injections tend to help most in early-to-moderate stages of joint arthritis, when some healthy cartilage remains, and for patients who haven’t responded well to conservative care such as physical therapy, NSAIDs, or corticosteroid injections. For advanced bone-on-bone arthritis, or other long term structural changes, patients may respond to more intensive forms of regenerative medicine therapy, or in other cases surgery may be a more appropriate option. Your physician can review your imaging and history to see where you fall on that spectrum.
How does this compare to surgery or joint replacement?
Autologous stem cell therapy is generally positioned as an earlier-stage option — it involves an outpatient procedure with a few weeks of reduced activity, rather than the months of rehabilitation that follow joint replacement, though joint replacement typically has more predictable long-term durability for advanced arthritis. It’s a question of matching the right option to the stage and severity of your condition, which your physician can help you think through.
How long do the effects typically last, and is this covered by insurance?
Published studies suggest relief from orthobiologic injections can last from several months to a few years for appropriately selected patients, though results vary and some patients consider repeat treatment over time. Because these procedures are generally classified by insurers as investigational or experimental for orthopedic use, they’re typically billed out of pocket; please call us to schedule and ask the physician about the total estimated cost of treatment during your consultation.
Is autologous allograft therapy available on Hawaii’s Big Island?
Yes. Hawaii Island Stem Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, located at 15-3039 Pahoa Village Rd, Pahoa, HI 96778, offers autologous bone marrow and adipose-derived stem cell therapy to patients throughout Puna, Hilo, and Kona — so East Hawaii residents don’t need to fly to Oahu for this kind of orthopedic care.
How do I find out if I’m a candidate?
Contact the clinic or schedule an initial consultation appointment so the care team can evaluate your condition and determine whether autologous allograft therapy is appropriate for you.
References
- Chahla, MD, Dean, et al. (2016) Concentrated Bone Marrow Aspirate for the Treatment of Chondral Injuries and Osteoarthritis of the Knee. Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine.
- Hauser, MD, Orlofsky (2013) Regenerative Injection Therapy with Whole Bone Marrow Aspirate for Degenerative Joint Disease: A Case Series. Clinical Medical Insights Arthritis Musculoskeletal Disorders.
