Orthobiologics in foot and ankle surgery

Exploration into the molecular aspects of the healing process has led to the development of autologous and recombinant biologic agents. These products, collectively known as orthobiologics, have the potential to optimize favorable outcomes with respect to bone and soft-tissue restoration and to maximize the natural healing response. These orthobiologics include platelet-derived growth factor, bone morphogenetic proteins, and platelet-rich plasma. Although the usefulness of these growth factors is well described in various fields of surgery, few data exist to support or oppose the specific application of growth factors in foot and ankle surgery.