Autologous Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Cell Transplantation in the Treatment of Freiberg's Disease: Case Report

Abstract

Background: Osteonecrosis of the metatarsal head, classically known as Freiberg's disease, presents as aseptic necrosis of the epiphysis of undefined etiology, although it may be associated with trauma, prolonged corticotherapy or systemic diseases such as sickle cell disease. There are several techniques described for the treatment of osteonecrosis secondary to sickle cell disease. Methods: Case report and the surgical description of the use of autologous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell transplantation for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the 2nd metatarsal head. Results: Nuclear magnetic resonance imaging performed after one year of follow-up showed a regression of the findings found in the preoperative evaluation. Conclusion: This is the first time that the technique of autologous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell implantation has been employed for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the metatarsal head. The case reported shows that the technique is safe and brings good results after conservative treatment failure.