Are orthobiologics the next chapter in clinical orthopedics? A literature review.

Orthobiologics are biologically derived materials which aim to promote healing and regeneration of tissues that are the focus of orthopedic surgery. Since bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage have different healing and regeneration characteristics, treatment strategies and clinical problems related to these tissues greatly differ. Although orthobiolgics are an old concept, most of the advancements in this field have been accomplished within the last two decades. A large number of promising laboratory studies show that orthobiolics hold a great potential in launching the next chapter of orthopedics. In this article, the use, research on this subject, future potential of orthobiologics, and the tissues in focus have been briefly reviewed.