Overview
Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) is prepared from a small amount of your own bone marrow, usually taken from the back of the pelvis. The marrow is processed to concentrate certain cells and proteins.
BMAC is used by some physicians for osteoarthritis and other orthopaedic conditions. Evidence for this therapy is limited or still evolving. It is usually not covered by insurance. It is not FDA-approved to treat any specific condition, and no outcome can be promised.
Please read: Evidence for this therapy is limited or still evolving. It is usually not covered by insurance, and it is not FDA-approved to treat any specific condition. No outcome can be promised. We will give you a written cost estimate before treatment.
Watch: how Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) works
Video: “BMAC (Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate)” from Lee Health on YouTube. It loads from youtube-nocookie.com only when you press play. Shown for general education; GSMC did not produce it. Watch on YouTube
How it works
After numbing the area, a needle is used to collect bone marrow from the pelvis. It is processed in a centrifuge and the concentrate is injected into the target area under imaging guidance.
Who it may be for
- Selected patients with osteoarthritis or tendon conditions
- Patients who have tried standard treatments
- Patients who understand the evidence and self-pay costs
Your exam and imaging decide whether this treatment is appropriate for you.
What to expect
- Before: consultation and written cost estimate.
- During: bone marrow collection, processing and injection at one visit.
- After: relative rest and gradual activity.
Recovery
Expect soreness at the collection and injection sites for several days. Your instructions may differ.
Risks and side effects
Every procedure has risks. Your physician will review them with you, including:
- Pain at the harvest site
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Lack of benefit
Insurance and cost
This treatment is usually self-pay. We will give you a written estimate before treatment. See accepted insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Is BMAC the same as stem cell therapy?
BMAC contains a small number of stem cells along with other cells, so it is often described as a cell-based therapy.
Is BMAC covered by insurance?
Usually not.
How long does the visit take?
Typically a few hours, including collection and processing.
This page is general patient education and does not replace advice from your own clinician. Individual results vary.