Microfragmented Fat Injections

Microfragmented fat—sometimes referred to as autologous adipose tissue concentrate—is created by taking a small amount of a patient’s own fat and processing it into a more refined form. Fat cells naturally contain a rich network of supportive cells, extracellular matrix, and signaling molecules. When prepared properly, this concentrated tissue can be injected into joints affected by arthritis, cartilage injury, chronic tendon problems, or inflammation.

Microfragmented fat is not stem-cell therapy, even though it contains regenerative cell populations. The fat is mechanically processed and the final product contains: adipose tissue scaffold, pericytes, Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), Endothelial cells and Immune cells.

The tissue is minimally processed, not expanded or altered in a lab, and is used in the same procedure in which it is harvested.

The treatment is performed in two steps during the same visit. A small amount of fat is removed from the abdominal or flank area using a minimally invasive liposuction technique under local anesthesia. The fat is then processed using a controlled mechanical system that washes, filters, and microfragments the tissue. This technique reduces unwanted oils, blood, and fibrous strands, leaving a purified and injectable concentrate.

Once the tissue is prepared, it is injected into the target joint or tendon using ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate placement. Most patients walk out of the office the same day. Soreness at the harvest site is common but usually mild.

Microfragmented fat is used in orthopedics for a range of conditions in which inflammation, cartilage wear, or soft-tissue degeneration plays a central role. Common applications include:

• Knee osteoarthritis
• Focal cartilage injuries
• Meniscus injury symptoms in non-repairable tissue
• Hip or shoulder arthritis
• Chronic tendinopathies such as patellar or gluteal tendon pain
• Post-traumatic joint issues with persistent inflammation

It is often considered when conservative care has failed but the patient is not yet ready—or not a good candidate—for joint replacement or a major surgical reconstruction.

Adipose tissue contains a high number of perivascular cells and other supportive components that release anti-inflammatory and reparative signals. When injected into a damaged joint, these cells do not “rebuild” cartilage in a structural sense. Instead, they may help reduce inflammatory activity, support the health of remaining cartilage, and improve the environment inside the joint. Many patients report improvement in pain and stiffness over the following weeks to months, although responses vary and long-term data are still emerging.

Recovery is generally uncomplicated. Patients usually resume non-impact activities within a few days and gradually increase activity as soreness resolves. The joint may feel temporarily irritated as the tissue integrates. Full symptom improvement may take several weeks, and the response is not instantaneous.

This treatment does not reverse end-stage arthritis or create new cartilage where none exists. It is most effective in earlier stages of degeneration or in patients whose symptoms are driven largely by inflammation and soft-tissue irritation. For more advanced arthritis, Dr. Patel may recommend combining biologic treatments with other joint-preserving procedures or considering surgical solutions.