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Frequently Asked Questions
Orthobiologics Associates is home to doctors and clinicians that are seasoned, knowledgeable, and passionate about helping patients overcome their health challenges.
Each member of our team works together to deliver seamless, safe, and effective patient care. Patient health and comfort are always our first priority. These are the answers to questions we hear the most often.
What are stem cells?
Stem Cells are the basic building blocks of life, the elemental cells from which our bodies are made. They are formed at conception and specialized to become all the different tissues in the body: skin, organs, muscle, blood, bone, etc. For example- muscle cells begin as stem cells, then they are determined and become muscle cells. Stem cells are simply undetermined cells. We use stem cells for the purpose of maintaining and repairing tissue. Cell Therapy Ortho-Biologics enhances this natural function by introducing high concentrations to an affected area, this stimulates regeneration and healing occurs at a rapid pace.
When should I expect to see results?
Cell Therapy Ortho-Biologics relies on your own regenerative healing to occur. Everyone is different and the healing process may take several months before results are seen. While many patients report that they begin to experience results within weeks, the majority of the healing will take place over time. Stem cells have been shown to continue to provide healing for up to one year. No accurate guarantee can be made regarding how soon results can be felt. There are variables including the diagnosis and the severity of the problem.
How long will my recovery take?
Cell Therapy Ortho-Biologics is a minimally invasive procedure. Most patients report being back to normal daily activities within 24-48 hours
Does health insurance cover this procedure?
We never want to preclude anyone from receiving the benefits of Cell Therapy Ortho-Biologics or learning more about this groundbreaking technology in health care. Therefore, while there will be out of pocket expenses associated with many of the regenerative techniques that we offer, we also accept all major insurances for those services that are covered. Once it is determined what interventions are required we will, in writing, discuss what your insurance covers and what the out of pocket expenses will be. You will be pleasantly surprised with the affordability of even the most extensive programs we offer.
Is this FDA approved?
Our procedures are compliant within the guidelines listed in the FDA Code of Federal Regulations 21 Part 1271. We meet FDA guidelines by providing a same-day procedure done entirely in our clinic with only minimal manipulation of a patient’s own cells which are then immediately delivered back to that patient.
Are there any known side effects to adult Cell Therapy Ortho-Biologics?
Side effects are typically minimal and may include minor pain and irritation at the injection site. Since we are using a patient’s own stem cells, chances of immune system rejection are extremely low. Extensive research and testing using adult stem cells is ongoing worldwide, and to our knowledge, there have been no reported instances of “serious adverse events” specifically to adult stem cells in any studies. In fact, our very own co-founders have authored a safety study which showed zero adverse events associated with Cell Therapy Ortho-Biologics in a large group.
Are there any ethical issues regarding these therapies?
No. Our NSI Stem Cell Clinic procedure uses a patient’s own stem cells derived from their own adipose fat tissue or bone marrow. We do not perform any procedures or undertake any research using embryonic stem cells.
Is an Autologous stem cell procedure safe?
Yes! The tissue is taken from the patient via sterile technique and remains in a sterile environment. There are no instances of cell rejection or disease transmission because we are using your own tissue and your own stem cells to treat your condition. All aspects of the procedure are performed in-house under a licensed physician.
Which is the best source of stem cells?
We are a full service regenerative medicine facility with the ability to harvest from many tissues including bone marrow, fat and blood. Our trained professionals will determine which resource is appropriate for the condition and how it presents. Having multiple tools at our disposal allows us to help with many conditions and provide the very best outcomes.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA):
How does Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) work?
An RFA uses a radio wave produced by electric current to heat a small section of nerve tissue. This process stops the nerve’s ability to send pain signals to the brain. Generally, RFA is used for patients suffering from chronic neck or lower back pain.
The RFA procedure does not involve injections per se, although needles are inserted into the skin to deliver the radio waves. Patients also receive numbing injections to remain comfortable during the process.
How Is an RFA Performed?
Prior to an RFA, you receive a nerve block to ensure that the nerves in question are indeed transmitting pain. Once it’s decided that the nerves are the culprit, the RFA is scheduled. You lie face down, the area that will be injected will be cleansed and numbed with a local anesthetic.
Guided by a fluoroscope, the doctor finds the nerve or nerves and sends a light current to that spot. The heat creates a lesion, so the nerve(s) can no longer send pain signals.
How Long Does an RFA Take?
The RFA procedure takes between 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the treatment areas.
Is a RFA Painful?
You may experience minor discomfort during an RFA. Most patients have some muscle soreness in the week following the procedure.
Regular application of ice packs should relieve soreness, as should the use of over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen. The pain is triggered by the nerves dying from the heat application. The affected nerves die within one to two weeks after the RFA.
How Long Will a RFA Last?
Most patients experience pain relief lasting from six months to one year after RFA. Some patients are pain-free for much longer. Eventually, the nerve will regenerate, but that may take up to two years to occur.
What Side Effects are Associated RFA?
Besides muscle soreness, which is common, most patients will not experience side effects after RFA. Some patients may feel sunburn-like pain over the treated area for several days post-procedure. The area may also feel numb to the touch during this period. Extremely Rare side effects include bleeding, paralysis, nerve injury, infection, or permanent numbness.
Are There Any Restrictions After an RFA?
You must have someone drive you home after the procedure. If possible, try to rest for a day or two after an RFA rather than go back to work or resume normal activities. Avoid taking a bath, swimming, or otherwise fully immersing in water for two days after the RFA.
You may take a shower the day after the procedure. Let your pain levels guide you on how much activity you pursue, but it is important not to overdo it. Complete recovery may take up to three weeks.
Since long-term pain may change the way patients use their bodies, it is advisable for some patients to visit a physical therapist for a personal exercise regimen to rebuild muscle strength and tone.
Medial Branch Blocks (MBB):
What is a Medial Branch Block (MBB)?
A Medial Branch Block (MBB) is a type of spinal injection to temporarily block the pain signals coming from the medial nerves. Medial nerves run through the facet joints, which allow movement between vertebrae.
How Long Does a MBB Last?
The anesthetic wears off in 1-2 days. When it does, your back or neck may feel sorer than usual. This is normal. The MBB is utilized for a therapeutic and/or diagnostic tool and can last up to 2-4 weeks.
Is a MBB Painful?
You may feel a small pinch, like getting a shot.
How Long Does a MBB Procedure Take?
The MBB procedure takes approximately 15 minutes, depending on the treatment areas.
How is a MBB performed?
You lie face down, the area that will be injected will be cleansed and numbed with a local anesthetic. A small needle is then guided using x-ray and/or ultrasound-guided to target the medial branch nerve which is then numbed as well.
What Side Effects are Associated with MBB?
Common side effects are pain and soreness at the injection site. Extremely Rare side effects included bleeding, infection, bowel and/or bladder problems, and nerve damage.
Are There any Restrictions after an MBB?
You can resume driving 24-hours after the procedure. The first 4-6 hours after the procedure, your facet joints that were injected will be numb. During this time, keep all activity to a minimum. All medications can be resumed 4-6 hours post procedure.