Biologic Orthopedic Meeting Summary

The first International Biologic Orthopedic meeting was held today in Mumbai, India.  Respected surgeons from the all parts of the globe presented their latest research on platelet rich plasma (PRP) stem cells and other biologic treatments for orthopedic related injuries and disorders.  Data was presented that has not yet been published including controlled trials supporting the use of PRP for knee osteoarthritis, plantar fasciitis and tennis elbow.  Other evidence supporting the use of mobilized peripheral derived stem cells in combination with microfracture was outlined in detail.  Fixation of articular cartilage defects in the hip with fibrin glue was yet another example of biologic orthopedics in action.

The consensus of the meeting was that biologic orthopedics was still in its infancy and it is important to proceed with caution.  There was also, however, a palpable level of optimism that these techniques and others that are still in development will contribute significantly to the well being of patients within the next five years.  Iterative and transformative improvements will be made as the research matures.

Significant credit must be given to Dr. Vijay Shetty for organizing the meeting and the Hiranandani Hospital for sponsoring it.  We are all looking forward to the publication of the data that was presented today and for the exciting collaborations that will arise from this meeting.  

Allan Mishra