Overview
Amniotic membrane therapy uses processed tissue from the inner lining of the placenta. Rich in growth factors, cytokines, and extracellular matrix proteins, it may support tissue healing and reduce scarring.
In-Depth: Amniotic
Amniotic membrane therapy uses processed tissue from the innermost layer of the placenta (the amnion), which is collected from consenting donors after planned cesarean section deliveries. The amniotic membrane is one of the richest natural sources of growth factors, cytokines, hyaluronic acid, collagen, and extracellular matrix proteins. These components work together to create an environment that may support tissue healing, reduce inflammation, minimize scarring, and promote cellular regeneration. Amniotic tissue has a long history of use in medicine — ophthalmologists have used amniotic membrane grafts for decades to treat corneal injuries and surface disorders, and wound care specialists have used amniotic products for chronic wound healing.
In regenerative orthopedic and pain medicine, amniotic membrane products are typically processed into injectable formulations that can be delivered directly to joints, tendons, and other injured tissues. The products may come in dehydrated, cryopreserved, or other processed forms, and the specific composition can vary between manufacturers. Like umbilical cord tissue products, amniotic membrane products are regulated by the FDA as human cells, tissues, and cellular and tissue-based products (HCT/Ps), and their regulatory status depends on how they are processed and what claims are made about their use.
Patients should be aware that there is often confusion about what amniotic membrane products actually contain. While these products are rich in growth factors and structural proteins, many commercially available amniotic products do not contain viable living stem cells by the time they reach the patient. The processing and sterilization methods used to ensure safety can also reduce or eliminate living cells. Patients should ask their provider specifically what the product contains and what evidence supports its use for their particular condition. Despite these limitations, amniotic membrane products may still offer therapeutic benefit through their growth factor content, anti-inflammatory properties, and ability to provide a supportive matrix for tissue healing.
How It Works
- 1 Amniotic membrane is sourced from consenting donors after planned C-sections
- 2 The tissue is processed, sterilized, and prepared
- 3 It is applied or injected into the treatment area
- 4 Growth factors and proteins promote healing
- 5 Anti-inflammatory properties reduce pain and swelling
Best For
Risks & Side Effects
- Potential allergic reaction to the amniotic tissue product, though rare
- Risk of disease transmission from donor tissue, though rigorous screening and testing is performed
- Risk of infection at the injection or application site
- Product may not contain viable stem cells despite marketing claims
- Variable product quality between different manufacturers
- Cost is not covered by insurance for most applications
Who Is a Good Candidate?
- May be considered: Patients with joint pain, tendon injuries, or plantar fasciitis seeking a minimally invasive biologic treatment
- May be considered: Patients with chronic wounds that have not responded to standard wound care
- May be considered: Patients who prefer a less invasive treatment than BMAC or SVF harvesting procedures
- Use caution: Patients should verify the manufacturer and processing standards of the specific amniotic product
- Use caution: Patients with known allergies to any components of amniotic tissue products