Page 29 - Regenerative Medicine - Patient Guide

BONE MARROW ASPIRATE
STEM CELLS

Bone marrow aspirate concentrate is made from
fluid taken from bone marrow. A needle is used to
remove bone marrow from within the bone. This is
typically done under sedation or general
anesthesia. Marrow is commonly taken from the
pelvis but may be taken from other sites. The
pelvis is marked and prepped to keep the site
sterile. A hollow needle is inserted into the bone
and a syringe is used to withdraw fluid from the
bone marrow. (Figure 11) After enough fluid has
been collected, the needle is removed. Pressure
is applied to the needle site to stop the bleeding.
A small dressing is then applied. 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.

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 physician injects the stem cells
directly into the surgical site. This method is
avoided in patients who have an infection or cancer.
Complications may include pain, bleeding,
infection and nerve injury. An intra-abdominal
injury may occur because of the needle. The
success of bone marrow aspirate stem cells is
dependent on the age of the patient.

FIGURE 11