Study of Bone Marrow Aspirate Injection Added to Knee Arthroscopy Surgery for Meniscus and Cartilage Injuries

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether adding bone marrow aspirate BMA injections during knee arthroscopy surgery can improve outcomes for patients with meniscal injuries, cartilage defects, or early osteoarthritis of the knee. This randomized, single-blind trial will enroll 50 adults aged 18 to 64 who need knee arthroscopy. The study aims to fill gaps in current knowledge about BMAs effects on patient-reported outcomes and to compare key laboratory counts between BMA and previously reported bone marrow concentrate products. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups one will receive standard arthroscopic debridement surgery with a saline injection, and the other will receive the same surgery plus an injection of about 4mL of bone marrow aspirate taken from the hip bone during surgery. A small portion of the aspirate will be sent for laboratory testing. The study will not evaluate bone marrow concentrate but focus on BMA alone. Patients will be followed for 12 months after surgery, completing questionnaires about pain, daily activities, and knee function at baseline, 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months. Researchers will collect multiple self-reported scores and one objective walking and stair climbing test. The main outcome measured will be the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score KOOS at 12 months. This comprehensive follow-up aims to assess how adding BMA affects recovery and knee function over time.

Impact of Bone-Marrow Aspirate Injections in Knee Arthroscopy