What is PGM?

Placental Graft Matrix, or PGM is used in regenerative medicine to help your body to regenerate soft tissue and heal damaged tissue. There have been over 500,000 allografts distributed for use in various types of surgery and wound care. Other forms of amniotic membrane have been used for almost 100 years. PGM contains natural factors, called “growth factors,” for homogolous use to modulate inflammation, reduce scar tissue formation and enhance healing.

What are growth factors?

Growth factors are powerful agents that our bodies produce to signal cells to come to the target site, help the site to heal, and help your own cells regenerate the damaged tissue. PGM contains some of the mmost important growth factors for healing.

Which growth factors are in PGM?

There have been 226 different growth factors specialized cytokines and enzyme inhibitors identified in PGM. Some of the most notable regulatory factors that help enhance healing are: Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGF-B), Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF), and Platelet Derived Growth Factor A & B (PDGF AA & BB).

Why PGM?

The use of amniotic tissue has been documented in published literature since the early 1900’s. Amniotic membrane has been the subject of many scientific publications evaluating its use in modulation of inflammation, reduction of scar tissue formation and enhancing healing. All of the amniotic membrane tissue for PGM is donated by healthy consenting mothers undergoing scheduled caesarean sections. The amniotic membrane is the cover that was surrounding the baby and is typically discarded after the baby is born. The recovery of the membrane does not affect the baby or the delivery process. Therefore, the donation process does not share the ethical concerns associated with embryonic tissue.

Is PGM Right for Me?

You and your provider may consider PGM an option if:

• You have been diagnosed with an injury resulting in inflammation.
• Conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, chiropractic, steroid injections, NSAID medications and/or bracing have not provided lasting symptomatic relief.
• You want a non-steroidal option or have reached your limit of steroids injections.

Before and After Treatment

Before treatment: You will be scheduled for an evaluation and likely some diagnostic imaging such as x-rays or MRI to determine if PGM is the right treatment for your condition.

After treatment: The treatment site might appear red and be tender to the touch. The procedure might cause some soreness that may last for up to 2-3 days. If the area is painful or swollen, or if you have any questions about the response you are having, please call our office and ask to speak to a provider. You will be scheduled for a follow-up with your doctor 8 weeks following your PGM treatment.

Rehab: Depending on your condition, your physician may prescribe some home rehabilitation or refer you to a physical therapist. To get the optimal results from your PGM treatment, it is important that you follow your doctor’s post-treatment care instructions.