Global Integration of Regenerative Orthopaedic Education: Curriculum Innovations and Cross-Cultural Challenges

Orthopaedic practice is undergoing a paradigm shift toward more physiological and regenerative approaches for managing complex and degenerative musculoskeletal conditions. This shift is evidenced by the exponential rise in the use of orthobiologics and cellular therapies in routine surgical practice. Despite their growing clinical relevance, the integration of regenerative medicine into medical education remains inconsistent and fragmented across institutions and countries.

A qualitative synthesis was conducted based on curricular proposals and institutional models from leading regenerative medicine organizations. These include the American Board of Regenerative Medicine (ABRM), the Academy of Regenerative Medicine (ARM) in the UK, the Brazilian Academy of Regenerative Medicine (ABMR), and the Fellowship in Stemcell and Regenerative Medicine (FISRM) under Agathisha Stemcell Academy in India. Key barriers to curricular integration-such as lack of standardized guidelines, pedagogical resistance, instructor shortages, and infrastructure deficits-were identified and analyzed. Strategies for overcoming these barriers, including faculty development and adoption of proven pedagogical frameworks, were explored.

Findings indicate that while regenerative medicine is increasingly adopted in clinical practice, its educational incorporation is hindered by systemic and logistical challenges. Pioneering institutions have proposed competency-based models that emphasize practical training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and global standardization. Faculty training and curricular innovation emerged as critical enablers for scalable implementation.

To legitimize and optimize the clinical use of regenerative therapies, it is imperative to strengthen their presence in medical education. A globally harmonized, competency-driven curriculum supported by trained faculty and robust infrastructure will enhance safety, efficacy, and professional acceptance of regenerative medicine in orthopaedic practice.