Regenerative Medicine for Osteoarthritis: How Does It Work? Is It Effective?

The approach to treating degenerative pathologies has undergone a radical transformation thanks to discoveries in biotechnology applied to health.

At IMAGE REGENERATIVE, we have chosen to focus our activity on the excellence of regenerative medicine, a discipline that allows us to stimulate the body's biological repair processes.

Unlike traditional treatments that merely manage pain temporarily, our method aims to improve tissue quality and joint functionality through the use of autologous cells.

This treatment pathway finds its highest expression in orthopedic lipogems, a patented technology by Professor Carlo Tremolada that has redefined the standards of tissue regeneration.

Treating the Knee or Hip with Regenerative Medicine

The knee and hip joints are constantly subjected to mechanical loads that, over time, can lead to cartilage wear. Many patients come to the clinic after trying various pharmacological therapies without achieving stable benefits. Regenerative medicine intervenes precisely in these contexts, offering a solution for those suffering from gonarthrosis or coxarthrosis in early or moderate stages.

The regenerative process is based on the ability to activate a reparative response within the joint. Through the use of processed adipose tissue micro-grafts, a microenvironment favorable to tissue health is created. This procedure is particularly suitable for those who wish to avoid or postpone prosthetic surgery, preferring a less invasive and more natural approach.

The improvement in mobility and reduction of inflammation allow patients to resume daily activities with a freedom of movement that seemed lost.

The Principles of Regenerative Medicine in Osteoarthritis

Regenerative medicine is based on using the patient's own biological resources to treat musculoskeletal tissue lesions. Osteoarthritis is characterized by progressive cartilage degradation and chronic inflammation of the synovial membrane. The active principles used in regenerative medicine act on multiple levels to counteract this degenerative process.

Mesenchymal cells, present in large quantities in adipose tissue, possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Once inserted into the osteoarthritis site, these cells release cytokines and growth factors that reduce oxidative stress and promote joint homeostasis.

The fundamental objective is to positively modify the course of the pathology, transforming a degradative environment into a pro-regenerative one.

The effectiveness of this approach is supported by numerous scientific evidence confirming how biology can be a more powerful ally than simple pharmacological chemistry.

Comparing Techniques: Differences with Traditional Injections

There are various approaches often confused with regenerative medicine. Hyaluronic acid injections, for example, are common for lubricating the joint (viscosupplementation), acting as a temporary shock absorber. However, hyaluronic acid has no regenerative capabilities and is reabsorbed.

At IMAGE REGENERATIVE, we go beyond the concept of temporary "buffer": while traditional techniques act on the symptom, the Lipogems® method works on tissue biology for superior clinical stability.

Lipogems® and Its Role in Joint Regeneration

The Lipogems® system represents the heart of our therapeutic offering in orthopedics. It is a cutting-edge technology that allows us to harvest a small amount of adipose tissue from the patient themselves, usually from the abdomen or flanks, and then mechanically process it in a closed-circuit system. This step is fundamental because it maintains the integrity of the vascular-stromal niche, preserving the integrity of cells and growth factors without using enzymes or chemical additives.

The tissue thus obtained is injected with surgical precision into the joint affected by osteoarthritis. Once positioned, Lipogems® acts as a sort of biological scaffold that provides prolonged mechanical and biochemical support. The activated cells continue to work for months within the body, reducing pain and improving the natural lubrication of the joint.

This methodology, developed by Prof. Carlo Tremolada, has been extensively validated internationally and is now considered one of the safest and most effective treatments for tissue regeneration.

Treatment Comparison

Personalized Evaluation: Tailored Approach for Each Patient

Every case of osteoarthritis is unique and requires meticulous analysis before proceeding with any intervention. At our Milano clinic, the journey begins with an in-depth specialist consultation supported by imaging diagnostics, such as magnetic resonance imaging or high-resolution ultrasound. This phase is crucial for determining the degree of joint wear and the patient's suitability for regenerative medicine.

Treatment customization concerns not only the choice of technique but also the definition of a post-procedure recovery plan. We analyze lifestyle, physical activity level, and individual expectations to optimally calibrate the intervention. The tailored approach ensures that each regenerative injection is performed at the exact point where repair stimulation is needed, maximizing the chances of success and patient satisfaction.

Effectiveness and Results: What to Expect from Regenerative Treatments

The results achievable with regenerative medicine are progressive and related to the body's biological repair timelines. Many patients report a significant decrease in pain as early as the first weeks following the Lipogems® procedure, with constant improvement in joint functionality in the following months. The reduction in inflammation often leads to less dependence on systemic anti-inflammatory drugs, with evident benefits for the general health of the liver and digestive system.

The effectiveness of regenerative therapy is also measured in preventing osteoarthritis worsening. By acting on the quality of the joint microenvironment, it is possible to slow the wear process, allowing the patient to maintain an active lifestyle and delay the need for invasive surgery. The stability of results over time is one of the most appreciated aspects by those who choose to rely on the experience of our physicians, making this technique a valuable investment for their future mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the most frequently used regenerative medicine techniques for osteoarthritis?

The most advanced techniques include the use of autologous adipose tissue micro-grafts processed with the Lipogems® system and the use of platelet concentrates. These methods exploit the patient's biological potential to reduce inflammation and promote joint tissue stability.

How long does regenerative medicine last?

The duration of benefits can vary depending on the degree of osteoarthritis, but on average the clinical results of a Lipogems® procedure remain stable for a period between 18 and 24 months. Many patients experience even longer-lasting benefits thanks to the structural improvement of the joint microenvironment.

What is the best therapy for osteoarthritis?

Autologous regenerative therapy is currently one of the most advanced and effective solutions, as it acts on the biology of the joint and not just on the symptom. Compared to traditional hyaluronic acid injections, the Lipogems® method offers a deeper anti-inflammatory response and a decidedly superior duration of results.

What are the new treatments for osteoarthritis?

The most recent frontiers concern regenerative orthopedics with the use of vascular-stromal niches derived from fat. These technologies allow treatment of the pathology in a minimally invasive way, offering a concrete alternative to prosthetic surgery for cases of early and intermediate degeneration.