Direct Answer: Microfragmented adipose tissue (MFAT) is an autologous orthobiologic made from a patient's own adipose tissue. The tissue is mechanically processed without enzymatic digestion to create an injectable graft containing stromal and other cellular components. MFAT may be considered for selected musculoskeletal conditions, but it is not a guaranteed cartilage-regrowth treatment.
What Is MFAT?
Adipose tissue contains cells and structural components that can be used as an autologous tissue graft. With MFAT, a small amount of the patient's own fat is harvested and mechanically processed to reduce tissue particle size while preserving a biologic tissue matrix and cellular components.
MFAT vs. BMA/BMAC vs. PRP
PRP is prepared from blood and concentrates platelets and plasma. BMA/BMAC is derived from bone marrow. MFAT uses adipose tissue as an injectable tissue graft. These are different preparations and should not be treated as interchangeable or ranked universally; the diagnosis and evidence should determine which, if any, is appropriate.
Who May Be Considered?
MFAT may be discussed for selected joint and soft-tissue problems when a diagnosis has been established and the patient's goals and available evidence make an autologous orthobiologic reasonable. Candidacy depends on anatomy, disease stage, medical history, and treatment goals.
What MFAT Does Not Mean
MFAT should not be presented as a guaranteed way to regrow lost cartilage, reverse advanced arthritis, or eliminate the need for joint replacement. Evidence varies by condition and protocol.
Dr. Tortland's Perspective
I don't believe in choosing a biologic first and finding a diagnosis afterward. I start by identifying the tissue problem and then consider whether an orthobiologic has a reasonable role. 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.
MFAT is one tool in the orthobiologic toolbox—not a magic injection. It should be discussed in the context of the patient's anatomy, disease stage, goals, and the evidence for that indication.
What to Expect
MFAT involves tissue harvesting and mechanical processing during the treatment visit, followed by placement at the intended treatment site under image guidance. Exact preparation, anesthesia, recovery, and rehabilitation depend on the treatment area and diagnosis.
See Cellular Orthobiologics: BMAC & MFAT for the broader guide.
Considering cellular orthobiologic treatment? Start with Cellular Orthobiologics: BMAC & MFAT for the patient-facing treatment page.