Preserve the joint. Regenerate the tissue.
For patients who want an alternative to full knee replacement, DVM Hospital offers two advanced, evidence-based paths — surgical knee preservation and stem cell therapy — matched to your joint, your activity level, and your goals.
Not every knee needs replacing
- ✓ Early to moderate cartilage or ligament damage often responds to preservation
- ✓ Younger, active patients benefit most from delaying replacement
- ✓ Stem cell therapy can reduce pain and inflammation without surgery
- ✓ A specialist evaluation determines which path fits your joint
An alternative path for patients not ready for full replacement
Total knee replacement is a major surgery with a long recovery — and for many patients, it isn't necessary yet. DVM Hospital's Advanced Treatment Options program is built around a simple idea: preserve as much of your natural joint as possible, for as long as possible.
Our orthopedic and regenerative medicine teams assess your imaging, activity level, and long-term goals to recommend either surgical joint preservation or biologic stem cell therapy — or a combination of both — before replacement is ever discussed.
Knee preservation and stem cell therapy, explained
Two distinct approaches, often used together as part of a single treatment plan.
Knee Preservation Surgery
Corrective procedures that realign, repair, or reinforce the joint — addressing the root mechanical cause of wear rather than replacing the joint itself.
What it includes
- ✓ High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO) to correct joint alignment
- ✓ Meniscus repair or transplant to restore cushioning
- ✓ Cartilage restoration (microfracture or grafting)
- ✓ Ligament reconstruction for joint stability
Stem Cell Therapy
A minimally invasive, image-guided injection of concentrated regenerative cells that targets inflammation and supports the body's own tissue repair process.
What it includes
- ✓ Bone marrow or adipose-derived stem cell extraction
- ✓ Concentration and preparation in an on-site lab
- ✓ Ultrasound-guided injection into the affected joint
- ✓ Structured rehabilitation plan to support healing
Which pathway fits your joint?
A general guide — your specialist will confirm the right option after reviewing your imaging.
| Factor | Knee Preservation Surgery | Stem Cell Therapy | Total Knee Replacement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Invasiveness | Surgical, joint-sparing | Minimally invasive injection | Major surgical implant |
| Typical candidate age | Under 55, active | Any age, early-stage damage | Usually 60+ |
| Hospital stay | 3–5 days | Outpatient, same day | 4–6 days |
| Recovery time | 6–12 weeks | 2–4 weeks | 3–6 months |
| Own joint retained | Yes | Yes | No — prosthetic joint |
| High-impact activity after | Often possible | Often possible | Generally limited |
Signs an advanced treatment option may be right for you
A specialist consultation and imaging review will confirm eligibility, but these are common indicators.
Early to Moderate Wear
Imaging shows localized cartilage damage or joint narrowing, rather than widespread degeneration across the entire joint.
Active Lifestyle
You want to return to sport, work, or daily activity without the long-term limitations of a prosthetic joint.
Under 55 Years Old
Younger patients typically get more years of function from their natural joint than from an implant with a limited lifespan.
Managed Chronic Pain
You've tried physiotherapy or medication with limited relief and want a next step before considering surgery.
Joint Malalignment
Bow-legged or knock-kneed alignment is placing uneven pressure on one side of the joint, accelerating wear.
Wanting a Second Opinion
You've been told replacement is your only option and want a specialist review of preservation or regenerative alternatives.
From evaluation to recovery
The same pathway whether your plan includes surgery, stem cells, or both.
Specialist Consultation
A regenerative orthopedic specialist reviews your history, symptoms, and existing imaging.
Advanced Imaging & Assessment
MRI and weight-bearing X-rays map the exact location and extent of joint damage.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Your specialist recommends preservation surgery, stem cell therapy, or a combined approach.
Pre-Treatment Preparation
Lab work, fitness clearance, and a walkthrough of what to expect on treatment day.
Procedure Day
Surgical correction or image-guided stem cell injection, performed by your specialist team.
Guided Rehabilitation
A structured physiotherapy program to protect the joint while it heals and regains strength.
Progress Review
Follow-up imaging and functional testing confirm the joint is responding as expected.
Long-Term Maintenance Plan
A schedule of activity guidance and periodic check-ins to protect your joint for years to come.
Regenerative orthopedic care, built as its own specialty
Dedicated Joint Preservation Unit
A team focused only on non-replacement orthopedic care, not a side-service of general surgery.
On-Site Cell Processing Lab
Stem cells are extracted, concentrated, and re-injected in a single visit — no outsourced processing delays.
Image-Guided Precision
Every injection is performed under real-time ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate placement.
Structured Rehab Partnership
In-house physiotherapy tracks your recovery against clear, measurable milestones.
