Bone Marrow Aspirate Stem Cell Concentrate (BMAC)

Bone Marrow Aspirate Stem Cell Concentrate (BMAC) is a component of your bone marrow that contains growth factors and anti-inflammatory proteins which have been shown to promote bone and soft tissue healing as well as reduce symptoms of pain related to injuries, tendinitis and arthritis.

Stem cells can be found in many tissues throughout your body, but one of the richest sources can be found in your bone marrow. Fortunately, bone marrow can be harvested from several bones within your body and is relatively easy to access. Your bone marrow will be aspirated through a small needle puncture in your posterior iliac crest (pelvic bone) and placed in a special processing unit, which will concentrate your body’s stem cells, platelets and growth factors. The concentrate will be collected into a sterile syringe and injected into the targeted body area being treated.

BMAC may be recommended typically for patients that have failed other conservative therapies including physical therapy, medications, rest, and other injections. It is also a good option for those that are not candidates for surgery or prefer to avoid elective surgery.

Conditions that may be treated include: Osteoarthritis of the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, ankle and foot, rotator cuff tears, ligament tears including tears of the UCL in the elbow of throwing athletes, hip labral tears, articular Cartilage injuries, advanced tendon injuries and high-grade tendon injuries of the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, ankle and foot and muscle strains or tears

Patients may experience soreness at the collection site and treatment site for a few days following the procedure. Most patients will begin to see improvement approximately 1 to 2 months after treatment has been completed. Increased stability and strength are typically reported along with the decrease in pain. Recovery time and outcome will be dependent upon the structure treated and how chronic the problem.

The risks of stem cell therapy are extremely low but as with any procedure, there are possible risks and complications. Although very unlikely, any injection can potentially cause bleeding, increased pain, infection or nerve damage. Because your own cells are being utilized, there is no risk of tissue rejection of the cells. All stem cell therapies are performed under musculoskeletal ultrasound guidance allowing Dr. Alland to perform precision injections into the injured tissue.

While BMAC is an innovative and often effective treatment option, it is not a covered service. This procedure is considered experimental, investigational, non-covered and/or not medically necessary so, you, the patient, will be held financially responsible for the cost related to this procedure. To assist the patient we have applied a 20% discount off the BMAC fees which are calculated as follows:

(One joint) Base BMAC Preparation Fee: $3,750.00 

Discount at 20%: (- $750.00)

Total Due: $3,000.00

With bilateral sites, for example left and right knee, we also offer a bundled rate:

(Two joint) Base BMAC Preparation Fee: $5,000.00

Discount at 20%: (- $1,000.00) 

Total Due: $4,000.00

If you are interested in learning more about the procedure and whether it is a good option for you, please call us at 312-432- 2434 to set up a consultation with Dr. Alland.