Using bone marrow concentrate to treat osteonecrosis of the femoral head

Autologous Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate for the Treatment of Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10904704

This study is looking at whether using your own bone marrow during surgery can help improve recovery for people with early-stage osteonecrosis of the femoral head, and it aims to see if this combination leads to less pain and better joint health over time.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10904704 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of autologous bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) to enhance the effectiveness of core decompression surgery for patients with early-stage osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). The study aims to determine if combining BMAC with the standard surgical procedure can lead to improved clinical and radiological outcomes. By conducting a randomized controlled trial, the researchers will gather robust data on the efficacy of this treatment approach. Patients will be monitored for pain relief and joint preservation over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with early-stage osteonecrosis of the femoral head who are experiencing joint pain but have not yet reached the end-stage of the disease.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced osteonecrosis requiring total hip replacement or those with contraindications for surgery may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option that improves outcomes for patients suffering from early-stage osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using bone marrow aspirate concentrate for various orthopedic conditions, but this specific approach for ONFH is still being rigorously tested.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.