Procedures

Stem Cell Therapy for Avascular Necrosis of the Hip

Overview

This minimially-invasive procedure is used to treat avascular necrosis of the hip (the death of bone tissue from lack of blood) with an injection of stem cells drawn from the patient’s pelvis. The stem cells promote the natural healing of the necrotic bone tissue.

Collecting the Stem Cells

The patient is anesthetized, and a trocar and needle are inserted into the top of the pelvis. A sample of bone marrow is drawn through the needle. The bone marrow is placed into a centrifuge, where it is spun rapidly. The spinning process helps to concentrate stem cells contained in the bone marrow. This concentrated bone marrow is then drawn into a syringe.

Preparing the Femur

A small incision is made on the side of the hip. A guidewire is precisely guided into the head of the femur with the help of fluoroscopic x-ray visualization. A hollow, cannulated drill is then used to create a hole in the femur.

Injecting Stem Cells

The drill is removed, cleared of any debris, and then reinserted into the head of the femur. The guide wire is removed. The syringe containing the concentrated bone marrow is attached to the cannulated drill and the concentrated bone marrow is slowly injected into the hollowed femoral space. Stem cells will multiply, repair and rebuild the damaged tissue. The syringe and drill are removed.

End of Procedure and Aftercare

Patients will need to stay overnight in the hospital. Patients should avoid strenuous activities, particularly high-impact activities, for six months. Regular check-ups will be needed to monitor healing.