What is it?
An osteochrondral defect refers to a localized area of damage involving both the cartilage and the adjacent underlying bones. While this condition can occur at any joint, it is most common in the ankle or knee. It may be related to genetic causes, a bone condition or disorder, or stem from a sprain or injury. It can also arise post-surgery (i.e. after an ACL repair).
Symptoms of Osteochondral Defect
If pain is inhibiting you from completing your everyday activities, including walking and even standing, you may be affected by an osteochondral defect. You may experience prolonged joint pain as well as swelling where the affected joint is. You may also experience joint instability as buckling may occur at the joint site when weight is placed on it. The joint may also lock which prevents bending if there is a loose piece of bone or cartilage within the joint.
How is it Diagnosed?
To determine the level of instability, damage and stage of the ostechondral defect, CT scans and MRI scans are most commonly used in addition to a thorough physical exam. A bone scan may also be ordered as well.
PRP Treatment of Osteochondral Defect
Osteochondral defects are usually treated with surgery and its results are mixed and questionable. For those seeking alternatives, we utilize platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy in our office to treat osteochondral defects non-surgically.
What is PRP?
PRP treatments are injections derived from the patient’s own blood which contains growth factors to promote healing of musculoskeletal issues. It consists of a high concentration of platelets, due to their function of clotting, which plays an imperative role in healing and regeneration. Since the patient’s own blood is used, the procedure carries a low risk.
PRP injections are administered directly to the source of injury or damaged tissue. Articular cartilage has no blood supply so it cannot repair itself easily. By using PRP, one can stimulate and accelerate their body’s natural healing process by delivering an abundant supply of healing agents straight to the source for repair.
This outpatient procedure can generally be done in an hour so you can be treated and on your way within the same amount of time as your lunch break. Your Doctor may recommend receiving a few treatments spanned over a few weeks or months for maximum results.
Why us?
Kyle Auffray, professional NFL player (Jets, Oakland Rangers), being treated at Empire Physical Medicine & Pain Management.
We have a very high-quality, double-spin system to separate the platelets from the other components of blood for a very high yield of platelets. This high concentration of platelets enables the healing processes to take place and is crucial for the success of this treatment.
PRP is an effective treatment option for those who do not want to undergo surgery. It is safe, effective and can be done in minimal time and with little to no recovery time. You will be able to go back to your day-to-day activities and be active with just a few one-hour sessions.
To learn more about this cutting-edge treatment, please give us a call at (646) 665-7109 for more information.
Published By:
Empire Physical Medicine & Pain Management
7 W 45th St floor 9,
New York, NY 10036
Phone: (646) 665-7109
Website: https://manhattanpainrelief.com
