Regenerative Medicine

Professor Cathal Moran is a pioneer in the field of Orthobiologics and Regenerative Medicine. He is sought out by both patients and colleagues for his expertise in regenerative medicine, biologics and cell therapy and has lectured nationally and internationally on the subject. Cathal also plays an active part of related organisations such as the International Cartilage Repair Society, Biologics Association, AANA and AOSSM. Having been involved in research in this field for many years, establishing the Regenerative Medicine Ireland programme facilitates the next steps in providing patient treatments in an evidence based and scientific manne

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is naturally made in your body and is the fluid that lubricates your joint. In conditions such as arthritis, this lubricating fluid decreases leading to pain, stiffness and swelling. HA injections can be administered to treat knee and shoulder osteoarthritis and improve pain and function. The goal is to reduce pain and improve joint movement by increasing joint lubrication, reducing joint friction and inflammation. 

Research suggests that hyaluronic acid injections can provide symptom relief where pain killers may not have the desired effect. Hyaluronic acid injections seem to work better in some people than others. They may be less effective in older adults and people with severe OA.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an emerging treatment in a new health sector known as Orthobiologics. By stimulating the body’s own natural healing, PRP aides in the reparative process of injured or damaged tissue and is also anti-inflammatory in nature. It has grown in popularity in recent times for the treatment of chronic tendonopathies and sports injuries. 

To produce plasma that is rich in platelets, a sample of blood is drawn and spun in a machine (centrifuge) at an extremely high speed to separate the platelets and plasma from the blood cells. The resulting fluid has a high concentration of platelets and thus of growth factors. This PRP fluid can then be injected into an injured area to help accelerate healing

The Lipogems device & process was invented in Europe by researchers looking for a way to optimise fat cells for biologic and reconstructive applications. Realising that the reparative benefits obtained from this novel method far surpassed expectations, the developers reached out to colleagues at major research institutes around the world to help understand and investigate the unique and exceptional characteristics of the micro- fragmented fat obtained with the device. Lipogems has now been used in more than 8,000 clinical cases globally and clinical studies at major research institutes are ongoing. 

Microfragmented adipose tissue processed by the LIPOGEMS System is used to provide cushion and support to help the natural healing process by supporting the repair, replacement, reconstruction of damaged or injured tissue. Our own blood, fat and bone marrow contain potent elements that naturally reduce inflammation and promote healing. By utilising these substances, including fat cells, platelet rich plasma and bone marrow derived cells in qualifying patients, our doctors are able to tap into the body’s own natural resources to either avoid or delay surgery, or improve the outcomes of operative intervention.

Our specialist team strive to provide an evidence based approach to patient care and education. Our team are constantly engaging in continued professional development and specialist training to provide the highest quality evidence based care. 

Patient education is an important element of all consultations and treatment plans as improved understanding and knowledge leads to improved patient outcomes. Prof. Moran and his team will discuss with you in detail the most evidence based treatments available for your condition or injury. 

Professor Moran is a member of The Biologic Association. The Association’s mission is to foster and convene a collaboration for shared and coordinated efforts to speak with a unified voice in the musculoskeletal biologics environment, advocating for the responsible use of biologics in clinical practice, spearheading standards development, and assessing and reporting on the safety and efficacy of biologic interventions.

The Biologic Association provides educational assistance worldwide for physicians and healthcare professionals. It allows the medical community to deepen their clinical knowledge, gain insight into medical options, and stay current on medical and scientific research and findings, patient care and the treatments.

Professor Moran completed his training in the Orthopaedic Sports Medicine and Shoulder Fellowship at Hospital for Special Surgery and Cornell Medical College in New York, the Cartilage Repair Centre at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, and Antwerp Orthopaedic Centre in Belgium.  He has worked extensively with professional athletes and teams across Ireland, the US and Europe.

He is a Principal Investigator at Trinity Centre for Bioengineering, RCSI Bioengineering and AMBER research centres, as well as a lead surgeon for SSC’s participation in international multi-centre clinical trials. He links this research to the development new options for cartilage and ligament injury at UPMC Sports Surgery Clinic. He has published over 50 papers and given over 200 presentations