Direct Answer: Bone marrow aspirate (BMA) is obtained from a patient's own bone marrow and can be concentrated as bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC). Depending on the diagnosis, it may be injected into a joint or used for a bone marrow lesion, including selected intraosseous applications. It is not a universal treatment for joint pain.
What Is BMA/BMAC?
Bone marrow contains blood-forming cells, stromal cells, platelets, growth factors, and other biologic components. During a BMA procedure, marrow is aspirated from a selected site and prepared for use. When the aspirate is further concentrated, the preparation is commonly called BMAC.
Where Can It Be Used?
Depending on the condition, BMA/BMAC may be considered for selected joint problems or bone lesions. In some cases the material is placed inside a joint. For appropriately diagnosed bone marrow lesions, an intraosseous injection may be considered to deliver treatment directly into affected bone.
BMA/BMAC vs. PRP
PRP starts with blood and concentrates platelets and plasma. BMA/BMAC starts with bone marrow and contains a different mixture of cellular and biologic components. Neither is universally superior; the relevant question is which treatment, if any, fits the diagnosis and evidence.
Who May Be Considered?
BMA/BMAC may be discussed for selected patients with a clearly defined joint or bone problem when conservative care has not provided an adequate solution or the diagnosis suggests a potential role for a marrow-derived orthobiologic.
What BMA/BMAC Does Not Mean
BMA/BMAC is not synonymous with commercial “stem cell” products. It is an autologous preparation made from the patient's own marrow. It should not be represented as a guaranteed way to regrow cartilage or eliminate surgery in advanced disease.
Dr. Tortland's Perspective
The more advanced the treatment, the more important the diagnosis becomes. I use BMA/BMAC selectively rather than treating it as a default injection for joint pain. I am dual board-certified in Sports Medicine & OMM and Regenerative Medicine and was the first physician in the world board certified in Regenerative Medicine in 2015. I have practiced orthobiologic medicine since 2007.
My philosophy is Validate – Investigate – Regenerate. First establish what is causing the symptoms; then determine whether the evidence supports an orthobiologic approach; only then decide whether BMA/BMAC belongs in the plan.
What to Expect
The procedure involves harvesting bone marrow, preparing the aspirate, and delivering it to the intended site under image guidance. Harvest location, processing, injection technique, anesthesia, and recovery depend on the treatment being performed.
See Cellular Orthobiologics: BMAC & MFAT for the broader guide.
Considering BMA/BMAC? Start with Cellular Orthobiologics: BMAC & MFAT for the patient-facing treatment page.