Bone Marrow Aspiration

BONE MARROW ASPIRATION

Bone marrow aspirate concentrate is made from fluid taken from bone marrow. The bone marrow aspirate contains stem cells that can help the healing of some bone and joint conditions. Bone marrow aspirate concentrate is obtained with a minimally invasive procedure that avoids the risks of an open bone graft procedure.

Stem cells can be used to help with bone healing, cartilage repair and new blood vessel growth. Using stem cells may treat delayed union or nonunion of bone fractures, cartilage defects, osteonecrosis, chronic tendon problems, or chronic wounds.

SURGERY
A needle is used to remove bone marrow from within the bone. This typically is done under sedation or general anesthesia. Marrow commonly is taken from the pelvis but may be taken from other sites.

Bone marrow aspiration usually is performed on the same side of the body as the foot or ankle procedure. The sample of bone marrow is removed and then spun down in a centrifuge to separate the cells. A liquid is produced that has a high concentration of stem cells. The surgeon injects the stems cells directly into the surgical site or mixes it with a graft.

After aspiration, there usually is pain at the pelvis that goes away within several days. A small dressing or bandage is kept at the aspiration site until it has healed.

COMPLICATIONS
Complications may include pain, bleeding, infection, and nerve injury. Intra-abdominal injury may occur because of the needle.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
  • How much pain can I expect after the procedure?

    Post-operative pain from aspiration of the pelvis usually is much less intense than the pain from the procedure at the foot or ankle. The pelvic pain may be present for approximately one week. The pain medicine prescribed by your foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon for the procedure should be sufficient to treat the pain at the pelvis.

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Information provided by American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) via FootCareMD.com
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