Orthobiologics are the way forward for many musculoskeletal conditions: Doctors

Pune: Doctors are now drawing on patients' own growth factors, including blood platelets, to heal them naturally from tendon and joint injuries.

Growth factors are natural proteins in the body that promote cell growth, repair, and regeneration. They play a key role in healing by stimulating tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and encouraging the formation of new blood vessels.

Broadly described as orthobiologics, this innovative therapy is effective but must be used judiciously, as it works only in carefully selected patients.

Experts emphasized this during the Pune Office Orthopedics Course (POOC) held in the city on November 24. The event drew over 135 participants and featured insights from 32 leading experts across India.

"Orthobiologics have opened a new era of non-surgical treatments for degenerative musculoskeletal conditions. There is, however, still a need for more randomized controlled trials focused on Indian populations to develop guidelines that will help practitioners choose the right type of orthobiologic treatment," said Kochi-based orthopaedic surgeon Dr George Jacob.

The conference was the first of its kind interdisciplinary academic gathering, where pharmacology professors, dermatologists, radiologists, anaesthetists, orthopaedic surgeons, endocrinologists, rheumatologists, physiotherapists, prosthetists, and ergonomic consultants were faculty.

Pune-based orthopaedic expert Dr Kiran Shete served as course director for POOC. "Non-surgical treatment like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) harness growth factors from a patient's own blood, significantly expediting recovery in tendon injuries and joint conditions," Shete said.

Experts at the event discussed the practical applications of orthobiologics in managing conditions like tendinopathies, knee osteoarthritis, and ligament injuries. Discussions also covered critical treatment protocols and preparation methods to ensure the effectiveness of these therapies.

Ahmedabad-based senior orthopaedic surgeon Dr Jawahar Jethwa said, "It is a need of time that we look into all options before suggesting any surgical treatment for our patients. Orhtobiologics are the way forward for many musculoskeletal conditions."