The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that plays a vital role in knee health and functionality, providing cushion and support between the adjoining shin and thighbones. It is also one of the most common areas to sustain a knee injury, and when it does, the result can be symptoms like pain, stiffness and swelling.

What is a Degenerative Meniscus Tear?

Tears to the meniscus can occur in one of two ways. In the case of acute injury, the meniscus is torn due to trauma, often in the form of sudden impact or force. On the other hand, degenerative meniscus tears occur gradually over an extended period of time with consistent wear and tear. Due to their nature, degenerative tears are more likely to develop with age and are less likely to show intense and sudden symptoms. That being said, degenerative tears can still lead to problems as they progress and may cause pain along with symptoms such as catching or locking sensations in the knee.

What is BMAC?

Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) is a blood product containing stem cells, anti-inflammatory proteins and growth factors taken from a patient's own bone marrow. This superpower concentrate packs a major punch in helping certain tissues within the body heal and regenerate themselves. This is particularly true for cartilage like the meniscus that is also avascular and receives insufficient blood supply to heal well on its own.

How can BMAC Improve Degenerative Meniscus Tears?

While BMAC is not a sufficient treatment for acute meniscus tears, it can be a great treatment option for degenerative tears. When injected directly into a damaged meniscus, BMAC can calm inflammation and promote the growth of healthy, new tissue leading to a significant improvement of symptoms in a matter of weeks. BMAC injection can be performed in-office or in conjunction with a surgery. Some meniscal tears require surgery to debride the damaged tissue. BMAC can then be injected under direct visualization.

BMAC Injections for Degenerative Meniscus Tears in Baton Rouge

In Baton Rouge, Dr. Joseph E. Broyles is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in cartilage regeneration through procedures such as BMAC. Dr. Broyles often successfully helps his patients prolong the healthy life of their joints and avoid invasive and complex procedures like total joint replacement. To request an appointment with Dr. Broyles where you can further discuss your own case, click the button below.