IC 304-2024: How to Incorporate Orthobiologics in your Practice: Safe, Effective, and Ethical-IC 304: How to Incorporate Orthobiologics in your Practice: Safe, Effective, and Ethical

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In his presentation on orthobiologics, Steve Weber provides an in-depth overview of the regulation and application of biologics in orthopedic treatments, particularly focusing on the intricacies and challenges experienced during his four years at the FDA. The market for orthobiologics is substantial, with significant financial stakes. The FDA offers definitions and frameworks for what constitutes a biologic, from living cells like stem cells to completely synthesized products. Weber highlights the complexity and often murky understanding required to navigate FDA regulations, which can pose significant legal risks for practitioners if they misapply these products.<br /><br />The FDA's regulation of human cellular and tissue products (HCTPs) splits these into categories based on perceived risk: the 361 products, which are minimally manipulated and do not require extensive pre-market approval, and the 351 products, considered higher risk and needing rigorous pre-market review. Weber also underscores the importance of understanding what counts as homologous use and minimally manipulated products, key areas subject to regulatory scrutiny.<br /><br />He offers practical advice for practitioners, emphasizing the importance of informed consents, appropriate use-only approved products, and regulatory compliance, especially concerning recent changes such as the discontinuation of FDA enforcement discretion and the legal risks involved with non-compliant use. His emphasis centers on ethical use and the evolving landscape of orthobiologics, advocating for continued education and caution in implementing biologic treatments in orthopedic practice.

Keywords

orthobiologics

Steve Weber

FDA regulations

biologics

orthopedic treatments

HCTPs

361 products

351 products

homologous use

minimally manipulated

regulatory compliance

ethical use