Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) is derived from the bone marrow. The bone marrow is a rich source of precursors to mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), which have the potential to differentiate into musculoskeletal cells. These cells exhibit plasticity, meaning they can transform into any type of specialized cell needed for healing.
For example, if mesenchymal stem cells or their precursors are injected into a knee joint with a torn meniscus and loss of hyaline cartilage, these cells can form chondrocytes (specialized cells that create cartilage). Over time, these cells regenerate the damaged knee, forming hyaline cartilage in cases of arthritis or fibrocartilage for the meniscus.
Thus, BMAC is one of the most powerful regenerative procedures that can use your own body’s healing ability to repair damaged tissue.
Is BMAC better than PRP?
To improve the healing quality and speed of an injury or condition, a doctor may suggest either PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) or BMAC. Both are effective in pain management and healing, but BMAC may be better for tissue regeneration. However, these procedures are supplementary and should not replace physical therapy or pain management.
Are BMAC injections covered by insurance?
BMAC is an elective procedure and is not covered by insurance. Payment is the patient’s responsibility, and full payment is required at the time of service. The payment is non-refundable.
Is BMAC FDA approved?
The device used to process BMAC is FDA-cleared. Since BMAC is made from your own cells and requires minimal manipulation, it does not currently need FDA approval. It is not considered a drug. BMAC is one of the only FDA-approved delivery methods for mesenchymal stem cells.
How painful is BMAC?
While some discomfort is possible, most patients tolerate the procedure well with minimal pain. The procedure is done under local anesthesia to reduce discomfort. Post-injection soreness may occur at the injection site due to the inflammatory response triggered by BMAC therapy.
What are the side effects of the BMAC injection?
Most reported complications of BMAC are mild. These include pain, swelling, and skin rash or itching at the injection or harvest sites.
What is the recovery time for the BMAC injection?
For the first 2-3 days, swelling and discomfort are common. By the end of the first week, these symptoms typically improve, and physical therapy is started to optimize recovery. Improvements may be seen as early as one week or as late as 8 weeks following BMAC therapy.
Can stem cell injections rebuild cartilage?
Yes, stem cell therapy has the potential to regrow cartilage. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations about the amount, speed, and effectiveness of this process.
Is BMAC worth it?
In 34 out of 36 cases (94.4%) across 8 studies, BMAC demonstrated significant improvement. BMAC is effective in improving pain and patient-reported outcomes in individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA) in the short to midterm follow-up.
