Regenerative Joint Therapy (APS & Stem Cell)

Advanced non-surgical regenerative treatments including Autologous Protein Solution (APS) and stem cell therapy for joint degeneration and osteoarthritis — performed by a Harvard fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon at Mount Elizabeth.

Dr Andrew Dutton's clinic offers two advanced regenerative therapies beyond conventional PRP: Autologous Protein Solution (APS) and stem cell therapy. APS is a next-generation blood-derived treatment that concentrates not only platelets but also anti-inflammatory proteins, including interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) and tumour necrosis factor-stimulated gene-6 (TSG-6), which directly counteract the pro-inflammatory cytokines driving cartilage destruction in osteoarthritic joints. A single blood draw yields enough material for APS preparation, and the injection is typically performed under ultrasound guidance into the affected joint. APS is particularly indicated for mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee, hip, elbow, and shoulder, and clinical studies suggest it may provide relief lasting several years in responding patients. The approximate cost is SGD 2,000 per injection (before GST), though this varies by joint. Stem cell therapy at the clinic uses the patient's own mesenchymal stem cells derived from bone marrow (iliac crest) or adipose (fat) tissue. These cells are processed in a laboratory to isolate and concentrate the regenerative fraction before injection into the target joint. Stem cells have the capacity to differentiate into cartilage-producing chondrocytes, offering the potential for structural tissue repair rather than symptom management alone. Conditions treated include knee and hip osteoarthritis, cartilage defects, rotator cuff injuries, tendonitis, and sports ligament damage. The clinic acknowledges that stem cell therapy remains under ongoing clinical investigation and that long-term efficacy data continues to accumulate. Dr Dutton's orthopaedic fellowship at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital (2006–2007), combined with his Associate Professorship at the National University of Singapore, provide a rigorous academic foundation for the clinic's regenerative programme.