ArthroCell

Allografts are bone grafts taken from one individual for transplantation to another. ArthroCell is a bone allograft that consists of viable cells called chondrocytes that can generate a new bone cells and thus, help in healing. It is used to treat defects such as fractures and tumors of the bone, cartilage defects and joint injuries. It is surgically implanted into a person to aid the regeneration of new bone and restore the natural state of the bone.

What are the Sources for ArthroCell?

ArthroCell can be developed from:

• Femoral heads (upper thigh bone)
• Extremities of long bones
• Other bones or tissues that your doctor finds useful

ArthroCell may be harvested from a living donor or a deceased donor by an orthopedic surgeon.

• Living donors are screened for any health issues to ensure disease-free cells.
• If the cells/bone is harvested from deceased donors, the orthopedic surgeon may perform certain other tests such as nucleic acid amplification assays to ensure the graft is disease free and safe for collection.

There may be dedicated tissue banks as well to harvest chondrocytes for ArthroCell.

Bone Processing for ArthroCell

The donated bones are placed under sterile conditions to prevent contamination. They can also be irradiated. This serves the following purpose:

• Prevents bone degradation
• Gives desired shape and size to the bone graft
• Inactivates and removes any harmful germs from the bone reducing the risk of disease transmission

Then, the bone is processed which involves removal of the bone marrow and cellular debris with fluids such as acetone, ethanol, ether and hydrogen peroxide and detergents.

Bone processing improves self-generation of the bone and promotes healing.

The processed bones may be subjected to the following treatments:

• The bone graft may be fortified with growth factors to stimulate new bone formation.
• Some bone grafts may be processed which involves defatting and removal of bone marrow.
• Some bone grafts may be However, collagen, bone proteins and glycoprotein would be preserved. They are recommended for non-union or delayed union of bones.

Storage of ArthroCell Bone Graft

The processed bone may be preserved by freezing it at −0°C, storing it in liquid nitrogen at −196°C, or by subjecting it to freeze-drying.

What are the Advantages of ArthroCell?

ArthroCell is a biological substitute to restore, maintain or improve tissue function.

• It can adapt to the recipient’s body and proliferate bone cells.
• It is recommended for non-communicable bone and joint diseases.
• ArthroCell increases the rate and quality of bone/tissue healing.
• It’s surface supports bone formation.

What are the Risks and Complications of ArthroCell?

ArthroCell may be associated with certain risks such as:

• Immunological reactions due to incompatibility with the recipient
• Limited availability
• It may transmit an infectious disease (rare)

What is the Success Rate of ArthroCell?

The success of ArthroCell bone graft depends on the quality of the bone from where the chondrocytes have been harvested. Other factors include the collection, processing, preservation and sterilization of the bone graft. The precision with which your surgeon performs ArthroCell implant also affects the success of your surgery.

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