Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate in Combination With Intravenous Iloprost Increases Bone Healing in Patients With Avascular Necrosis of the Femoral Head: A Matched Pair Analysis

Stem cell therapy combined with core decompression versus core decompression alone in the treatment of avascular necrosis of the femoral head: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Accumulated clinical trials had been focused on stem cell therapy in combination of core decompression (CD) in the treatment of avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH). Nonetheless, the results were inconclusive. Here, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of previous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and retrospective studies to assess whether combined stem cell augmentation with CD improved the outcomes of ANFH compared with CD alone.

METHODS

The current study included 11 RCTs and 7 retrospective studies reporting the clinical outcomes of a total of 916 patients and 1257 hips. 557 and 700 hips received CD and CD plus stem cell therapy, respectively. To compare CD with CD plus stem cell therapy, we examined the clinical evaluating scores, the occurrence of the femoral head, radiologic progression and conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA).

RESULTS

Only 10 studies reported significantly greater improvement in hip functions while combining stem cell procedure with CD. The pooled results in subgroup analysis indicated that stem cell group had a lower collapse rate on a mid-term basis (P = 0.001), when combined with mechanical support (P < 0.00001), and with extracted stem cells (P = 0.0002). Likewise, stem cell group had a lower radiographic progression rate at 2- to 5-year follow-up [P = 0.003], when combined with structural grafting (P < 0.00001), and with extracted stem cells (P = 0.004). Stem cell therapy resulted in an overall lower THA conversion rate (P < 0.0001) except that at a follow-up longer than 5 years.

CONCLUSION

Stem cell therapy combined with core decompression was more effective in preventing collapse, radiographic progression and conversion to THA. Trial Registration The current protocol has been registered in PROSPERO with the registration number: CRD42023417248.

Regenerative medicine for osteonecrosis of the femoral head : present and future

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2023;12(1):5-8.

A Cost-Effective Novel Surgical Technique of Core Decompression with Bone Marrow Aspiration Concentrate: A Preliminary Cadaveric Study

Introduction

Core decompression supplemented by stem cell incorporation is an upcoming field of research in avascular necrosis of the femoral head. Plugging the canal to avoid loss of the concentrate injected has been recognized as a crucial step to improve the efficacy of the procedure. We describe a new surgical technique that results in native bone plug formation and eliminates the need for any additional blocker.

Methodology

This pilot study was performed on 4 cadaveric proximal femurs. The standard technique was used for core decompression and bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) injection. Additionally, two more tracts were drilled, superolateral, and inferomedial to the primary tract.

Results

No leakage of the radiopaque dye was observed from the entry point of the primary tract, ensuring its complete blockage in all 4 cadaveric proximal femurs. This was confirmed by sectioning the femur specimens which manifested bone plug formation at the confluence of the three tracts.

Conclusion

Our technique is a unique and economical method of preventing leakage of BMAC through the entry point in the proximal femoral metaphysis. This may not only benefit patients but can also provide the groundwork for further research in this field.

The Use of Iloprost in the Treatment of Bone Marrow Edema Syndrome of the Proximal Femur: A Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective: The aim of this meta-analysis was to investigate the impact of intravenous iloprost therapy on pain, function, edema changes, and follow-up surgery in bone marrow edema syndrome of the proximal femur. Methods: A systematic literature search up to May 2022 was performed to find relevant papers that made a statement about the outcome of intravenous iloprost therapy alone. Factors such as the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Harris Hip Score (HHS), edema reduction, and follow-up interventions were considered. These were compared using Forest plots. Results: In 11 studies, 190 proximal femora with bone marrow edema syndrome that received intravenous iloprost therapy without further therapeutic intravenous or surgical intervention such as core decompression were studied. There was a significant mean improvement in VAS by 3.3 cm (2.07−4.5 cm) (p < 0.001) and HHS by 24.36 points (18.23−30.49) (p < 0.001) 3−6 months after receiving iloprost therapy. Only in 9.3% of cases (1.1−24.3%) did no clinical or radiological improvement occur. Conclusions: It could be shown that the existing publications support intravenous therapy with iloprost in patients with bone marrow edema syndrome and result in good clinical outcomes.

Patient and Disease Related Risk Factors Associated With Return to Sport Rates After AVN Treatment

BACKGROUND

Avascular necrosis (AVN) is a rare albeit serious condition that has a high risk for long term morbidity given the risk of chronic pain and arthroplasty after diagnoses. The recent rise in sports participation in the pediatric population demonstrates the importance of evaluating functional limitations after AVN treatment. Return to sport (RTS) rates after treatment for AVN have not been evaluated in pediatric or adolescent populations.It is necessary to evaluate all joints impacted by AVN due to heterogenous nature of the disease and the variety of sports that could be impacted by disease specific activity restrictions. Thus, this present study aimed to characterize RTS rate after AVN treatment, determine if there was a difference in RTS rates after operative versus nonoperative management, and identify demographic and treatment factors associated with RTS rates.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study evaluated patients ages eight to twenty years old who were treated for symptomatic AVN of any joint between January 2005 and August 2021. Patient records were reviewed for demographic, disease, and treatment variables. Standard descriptive statistics and bivariate analyses were performed to describe and compare groups who did and did not RTS. A generalized estimating model was used to determine variables that were associated with better RTS rates.

RESULTS

A total of 144 patients and 190 lesions were evaluated in the study, 60 patients (43%) were female with a mean age of 14.36+/-3.24 years. The overall RTS rate after AVN treatment was 67% (64/96). Roughly 8% of patients (5/64) were able to return to multiple sports, however of those that returned to sports, 6% (4/64) reported playing at a lower level of competition. There was not a significant difference between the RTS rate for those who underwent operative versus nonoperative management (70% versus 62%, p=0.38). Males were almost 2.5 times more likely to return to sport than females (OR: 2.46, p=0.018).

CONCLUSION

The ability to return to sports after AVN treatment has largely remained unknown in the pediatric and adolescent populations. Our data suggests that a majority of patients are able to RTS in the short term follow up with males being twice as likely to RTS compared to females. Physicians should maintain awareness of the long-term morbidity of AVN and understand the unique patient and disease characteristics that optimize functional outcomes in this population. Level of Evidence: III.

The use of biologics to improve patient-reported outcomes in hip preservation

Despite lack of clear understanding, the use of biologic treatment methods has increased in the United States. Therapeutic methods, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP), bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) and hyaluronic acid (HA) among other biologics, are commonly associated with relief of pain in a number of different orthopedic conditions. Within the past two decades, hip preservationists have investigated the roles of these biologic treatments in both non-operative and surgical management of common hip conditions. The purpose is to review the published literature surrounding the application and efficacy of biologics, most notably PRP, BMAC and HA, in the clinical management of hip conditions. The hip conditions examined in this review include hip osteoarthritis, femoroacetabular impingement syndrome and associated labral tear pathology, avascular necrosis of the femoral head and gluteal/hamstring tendinopathy. While our review of the literature suggests that there is support for the implementation of biologics to relieve pain and improve function for hip conditions. Through further research efforts, it is important to stay updated with the clinical efficacy of biologics in hip preservation.

Core decompression with bone marrow aspirate concentrate in post collapse avascular necrosis of hip: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Avascular necrosis (AVN) of femoral head is commonly seen in middle age groups and in its advanced stages, it is a common indication for total hip replacements (THRs). These patients invariably require revision surgeries in their lifetime and modalities to delay the first arthroplasty are necessary. Core decompression (CD) with bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) have proved successful in early stages of AVN, but their role in advanced stages remains unclear. The present review was done to assess the same.

RESEARCH QUESTION

Is CD and BMAC combination effective in delaying radiographic progression and THRs in post collapse stages of AVN hip?

METHODOLOGY

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to determine the overall efficacy of CD and BMAC in post collapse stages of AVN hip and to specifically compare primary outcomes like radiographic progression along with need of THR, with CD alone.Three data bases (PubMed, EMBASE and SCOPUS) were searched to identify relevant articles.

RESULTS

The present review included 12 studies with 3 studies included in the meta-analysis. There were 270 hips across the 12 studies out of which 196 hips were treated with CD + BMAC.

PRIMARY OUTCOMES

39.8% cases worsened from stage 3 to stage 4, while the overall incidence of THR in stages 3 and 4 was 38.3%. On comparison with CD alone the combination of CD + BMAC did not show any enhanced efficacy in either delaying progression (Odds ratio of 1.41 (95% CI = 0.55-3.62) or in conversion to THR (Odds Ratio: 0. 92; 95% CI = 0.41-2.06).

CONCLUSION

CD can be considered in stage 3 of AVN in younger population to delay the need of arthroplasty, before severe head distortion and arthritis sets in, and can be supplemented with bone strut grafts or tantalum rods, for supporting the articular cartilage. BMAC that has shown better results in early AVN, has not shown any additional benefits when compared to CD alone in advanced cases.

Bone Regeneration, Reconstruction and Use of Osteogenic Cells; from Basic Knowledge, Animal Models to Clinical Trials

The deterioration of the human skeleton's capacity for self-renewal occurs naturally with age. Osteoporosis affects millions worldwide, with current treatments including pharmaceutical agents that target bone formation and/or resorption. Nevertheless, these clinical approaches often result in long-term side effects, with better alternatives being constantly researched. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from bone marrow and adipose tissue are known to hold therapeutic value for the treatment of a variety of bone diseases. The following review summarizes the latest studies and clinical trials related to the use of MSCs, both individually and combined with other methods, in the treatment of a variety of conditions related to skeletal health. For example, some of the most recent works noted the advantage of bone grafts based on biomimetic scaffolds combined with MSC and growth factor delivery, with a greatly increased regeneration rate and minimized side effects for patients. This review also highlights the continuing research into the mechanisms underlying bone homeostasis, including the key transcription factors and signalling pathways responsible for regulating the differentiation of osteoblast lineage. Paracrine factors and specific miRNAs are also believed to play a part in MSC differentiation. Furthering the understanding of the specific mechanisms of cellular signalling in skeletal remodelling is key to incorporating new and effective treatment methods for bone disease.

Stem cell therapy for treating osteonecrosis of the femoral head: From clinical applications to related basic research

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a refractory disease that is associated with collapse of the femoral head, with a risk of hip arthroplasty in younger populations. Thus, there has been an increased focus on early interventions for ONFH that aim to preserve the native articulation. Stem cell therapy is a promising treatment, and an increasing number of recent studies have focused on this topic. Many clinical studies have reported positive outcomes of stem cell therapy for the treatment of ONFH. To improve the therapeutic effects of this approach, many related basic research studies have also been performed. However, some issues must be further explored, such as the appropriate patient selection procedure, the optimal stem cell selection protocol, the ideal injection number, and the safety of stem cell therapy. The purpose of this review is to summarize the available clinical studies and basic research related to stem cell therapy for ONFH.

Regenerative therapies increase survivorship of avascular necrosis of the femoral head: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to document the available evidence on the use of regenerative techniques for the treatment of femoral head osteonecrosis (or avascular necrosis of femoral head, AVN) and to understand their benefit compared to core decompression (CD) alone in avoiding failure and the need for total hip replacement (THR).

METHODS

The search was conducted on three medical electronic databases according to PRISMA guidelines. The studies reporting number and timing of failures were included in a meta-analysis calculating cumulative survivorship with a Kaplan-Mayer curve. Moreover, the results on failures in treatment groups reported in RCT were compared with those documented in control groups, in order to understand the benefit of biological therapies compared to CD for the treatment of AVN.

RESULTS

Forty-eight studies were included in this systematic review, reporting results of different types of regenerative techniques: mesenchymal stem cell implantation in the osteonecrotic area, intra-arterial infiltration with mesenchymal stem cells, implantation of bioactive molecules, or platelet-rich plasma. Overall, reported results were good, with a cumulative survivorship of 80% after ten year follow-up, and better results when regenerative treatments were combined to CD compared to CD alone (89.9% vs 70.6%, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Regenerative therapies offer good clinical results for the treatment of AVN. The combination of CD with regenerative techniques provides a significant improvement in terms of survivorship over time compared with CD alone. Further studies are needed to identify the best procedure and the most suitable patients to benefit from regenerative treatments for AVN.

The role of Iloprost on bone edema and osteonecrosis: Safety and clinical results

INTRODUCTION

Iloprost is a commercially available prostaglandin I₂ (PGI₂) analogue that is shown to have antithrombotic, vasodilatative and antiproliferative effects. A number of clinical studies have shown that Iloprost can be effective in the management of bone marrow oedema and the treatment of avascular necrosis. The aim of this manuscript is to present our current understanding on the effect of Iloprost on the treatment of these conditions.

AREAS COVERED

The authors offer a comprehensive review of the existing literature on the experimental and clinical studies analysing the effect of Iloprost on bone, bone marrow oedema and avascular necrosis.

EXPERT OPINION

The available data from the clinical studies suggest that Iloprost has limited effect in advanced stages of avascular necrosis. However, literature suggests that Iloprost administration can be a viable option in the management of bone marrow oedema and early stages of osteonecrosis. Despite these promising results its effect on bone homeostasis needs further elucidation. Moreover, further data on its safety, dosage and efficiency through randomized multicenter studies are desirable in order to reach final conclusions.

Allogeneic Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells as a Potential Source for Cartilage and Bone Regeneration: An In Vitro Study

Umbilical cord (UC) may represent an attractive cell source for allogeneic mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy. The aim of this in vitro study is to investigate the chondrogenic and osteogenic potential of UC-MSCs grown onto tridimensional scaffolds, to identify a possible clinical relevance for an allogeneic use in cartilage and bone reconstructive surgery. Chondrogenic differentiation on scaffolds was confirmed at 4 weeks by the expression of sox-9 and type II collagen; low oxygen tension improved the expression of these chondrogenic markers. A similar trend was observed in pellet culture in terms of matrix (proteoglycan) production. Osteogenic differentiation on bone-graft-substitute was also confirmed after 30 days of culture by the expression of osteocalcin and RunX-2. Cells grown in the hypertrophic medium showed at 5 weeks safranin o-positive stain and an increased CbFa1 expression, confirming the ability of these cells to undergo hypertrophy. These results suggest that the UC-MSCs isolated from minced umbilical cords may represent a valuable allogeneic cell population, which might have a potential for orthopaedic tissue engineering such as the on-demand cell delivery using chondrogenic, osteogenic, and endochondral scaffold. This study may have a clinical relevance as a future hypothetical option for allogeneic single-stage cartilage repair and bone regeneration.