Bowers, Robert L.

Abstract Adipose‐derived cellular therapies (AD‐CTs) are increasingly used in orthopedics, yet the field lacks a standardized framework for classifying these heterogeneous products. Although prior efforts have standardized platelet‐rich plasma and bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stromal cells, AD preparations remain inconsistently defined and poorly characterized. AD‐CTs encompass a range of products including enzymatically derived stromal vascular fraction, culture‐expanded adipose‐derived mesenchymal stromal cells (AD‐MSCs), and mechanically processed adipose tissue (AD‐MPT),each with distinct regulatory, cellular, and structural profiles. Unlike stromal vascular fraction and AD‐MSCs, which can be quantified using conventional assays, the intact extracellular matrix in AD‐MPTs complicates objective characterization. This paper introduces the Mechanical Processing (Harvesting) of Adipose Tissue classification system as a novel framework for standardizing the reporting of AD‐MPT harvesting and processing techniques that provides a structured approach to nomenclature and reporting. The system aims to enhance study comparability, facilitate research replication, and support the responsible advancement of adipose‐based therapies in musculoskeletal medicine.

AbstractThoracic outlet syndrome is an important cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction due to compression of neurovascular structures as they traverse the thoracic outlet. Symptoms are most commonly due to compression of the brachial plexus called neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (nTOS). Throwing athletes are at increased risk of nTOS because of a variety of biomechanical factors. However, because nTOS symptoms are often nonspecific, delayed diagnosis is common. Neurogenic thoracic outlet largely remains a diagnosis of exclusion with advanced imaging ruling out vascular involvement and diagnostic injections gaining favor in helping localize sites of compression. Although rehabilitation alone may improve symptoms in some athletes, many require surgical treatment for long‐term relief. This generally entails decompression of the thoracic outlet by some combination of muscle release, brachial plexus neurolysis, and first rib resection. Outcomes tend to be successful in athletes with most achieving resolution of symptoms and return to athletic activity. NTOS is an important cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction in throwing athletes. The history and physical examination should focus on activities that exacerbate symptoms. Treatment of nTOS generally requires surgical intervention and allows throwing athletes to return to sport.