What Are Orthobiologics? A Patient’s Guide
Learn how regenerative treatments are transforming orthopaedic care
The term Orthobiologics refers to a group of nonsurgical therapies which occur naturally and are used to repair and regenerate various damaged body tissues like cartilage, tendons, ligaments etc in a safe and biological manner.
It is one of the most promising and advanced yet completely natural forms of medical therapies.
Get Healed In The Natural Way
Consult with an Orthobiologics expert in Guwahati for accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment.
Types of Orthobiologics
The common types include:
1. PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) – Packed with platelets and growth factor
2. BMAC (Bone Marrow Aspiration Concentrate) – Stem Cell therapy
3. Molecular therapy: Ozone, Hydrogen etc
4. MFAT – Derived from Fat tissue
5. GFC (Growth Factor Concentrate)
Who is the Right Candidate for Orthobiologics Treatment?
Case selection is very important to get optimum results. Active individuals with mild to moderate disease can get very good results.
It is beneficial in:
- Mild to moderate Knee Osteoarthritis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Tennis/ Golfer’s Elbow
- Hip AVN
- Partial tears of ACL/ PCL
- Meniscus tears
- Shoulder Rotator cuff tears
Who Should Not Use Orthobiologics?
Although results are usually very good, Orthobiologics is not a cure-all or magic solution. It must be used judiciously in appropriate cases.
- Active infection
- Malignancy
- Blood disorders
- End stage tissue damage
- Significant deformity
Benefits
The biggest benefit is that it stimulates the natural healing process of the body and reduces or delays the need for surgery.
- Minimally invasive, no stitches
- No admission – usually performed as a daycare or OPD procedure
- High degree of safety
- Low risk of complications
- Cost effective
What Does Research Say?
PRP for knee osteoarthritis has been studied in multiple randomized controlled trials. A 2021 meta-analysis in the American Journal of Sports Medicine found that PRP injections produced significantly better pain and function scores compared to hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation) at 6 and 12 months.
Similar encouraging results are reported across multiple studies for different conditions. It remains one of the most actively researched and evolving areas in orthopaedics.
Some cell-based therapies are still in the investigational phase.
Get Healed In The Natural Way
Consult with an Orthobiologics expert in Guwahati for accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment.
How are Orthobiologics Prepared?
Molecular agents like ozone are generated using medical-grade equipment.
PRP is prepared from a small sample of blood, BMAC from bone marrow, and MFAT from fat tissue.
- The sample is centrifuged in a hospital lab
- A concentrated preparation rich in growth factors is obtained
- This is then injected into the affected area
Safety and Risks
Orthobiologics generally have a high degree of safety due to their natural origin and biological compatibility. However, strict sterile precautions are essential. Ideally, procedures should be performed in a hospital OT setup to minimize the risk of infection.
Expected Outcome Timeline
- Mild discomfort at the injection site for 24–48 hours, which usually resolves on its own
- Healing process typically takes about 3–6 weeks
- Clinical improvement usually occurs within 6–12 weeks
Medical review by Dr Firoz Ahmed, MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics) – Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Guwahati.
Last Updated: Apr 2026
Disclaimer: This post is for general awareness only and cannot substitute for medical knowledge. Any treatment decision has be based on actual patient examination and consultation by an experienced medical professional.
References:
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
- Mayo Clinic
- Cleveland Clinic
Dr Firoz Ahmed leading Orthopaedic Surgeon for Orthobiologics in Guwahati.
OPD Schedule: Mon – Sat (9AM to 4 PM)
Address: ARHI Hospital,11th Mile, Jorabat, Khanapara