Biologic and regenerative therapies are relatively new research areas in the field of joint replacement surgery. These therapies involve using biological materials, such as stem cells and growth factors, to enhance the healing process and improve the longevity of the implant.
One of the main benefits of biological and regenerative therapies is that they can potentially reduce inflammation and promote the formation of new tissue, leading to faster healing and improved joint replacement function.
Stem cells, for example, have the ability to differentiate into various types of cells and have been shown to have regenerative properties. Growth factors are substances that stimulate cell growth, proliferation and differentiation and have been used to enhance the healing process.
Another benefit is that biological and regenerative therapies can potentially reduce the wear and tear on the implant, which can help to prolong its lifespan.
However, it’s important to note that biological and regenerative therapies are still considered experimental and not widely available. Nevertheless, there are ongoing studies and clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of these therapies in joint replacement surgery.
It’s also essential to consult with your surgeon to understand if this approach is appropriate for you and if it is available in your area.
Overall, the use of biological and regenerative therapies has the potential to enhance the healing process and improve the longevity of the implant, but more research is needed to understand the benefits and risks of these therapies fully.
This article was written by Edona Hyla as part of an ongoing series of scientific communications written and curated by BioTrib’s Early Stage Researchers.
Edona’s research is focussing on Understanding the Nature, Origin and Degradation of Implant Debris at the University of Leeds, UK