Optimizing bone marrow harvesting sites for enhanced mesenchymal stem cell yield and efficacy in knee osteoarthritis treatment

Abstract

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating condition with limited long-term treatment options. The therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), particularly those derived from bone marrow aspirate concentrate, has garnered attention for cartilage repair in OA. While the iliac crest is the traditional site for bone marrow harvesting (BMH), associated morbidity has prompted the exploration of alternative sites such as the proximal tibia, distal femur, and proximal humerus. This paper reviews the impact of different harvesting sites on mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) yield, viability, and regenerative potential, emphasizing their relevance in knee OA treatment. The iliac crest consistently offers the highest MSC yield, but alternative sites within the surgical field of knee procedures offer comparable MSC characteristics with reduced morbidity. The integration of harvesting techniques into existing knee surgeries, such as total knee arthroplasty, provides a less invasive approach while maintaining therapeutic efficacy. However, variability in MSC yield from these alternative sites underscores the need for further research to standardize techniques and optimize clinical outcomes. Future directions include large-scale comparative studies, advanced characterization of MSCs, and the development of personalized harvesting strategies. Ultimately, the findings suggest that optimizing the site of BMH can significantly influence the quality of MSC-based therapies for knee OA, enhancing their clinical utility and patient outcomes.