Stem Cell Therapy
A state-of-the-art regenerative procedure that uses your body's own cells to repair damaged joints and tissues.
What is Stem Cell Treatment?
Stem cell therapy is a state-of-the-art procedure that involves taking healthy stem cells from an area of the body, usually the abdomen where there is fat tissue or from bone marrow. The cells are then processed externally before being injected directly into the affected area. Once in the joint, the stem cells regenerate and encourage healthy cartilage, tissue, tendons, or bone to grow and ultimately your joint to heal.
Types of Stem Cells
Understanding the Science
There are two major types of stem cells: embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are pluripotent, meaning they can develop into almost any cell type. Adult stem cells, or somatic stem cells, reside in specific pockets of tissue like bone marrow and blood. As we age, these cells function to renew old and worn-out tissue. In orthopedics, we most commonly use mesenchymal stem cells obtained from bone marrow or fat tissue (adipose), which have the ability to replicate into cells that form the musculoskeletal system such as tendons, ligaments, and articular cartilage.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Capable of replicating into musculoskeletal tissues like tendons and cartilage.
Autologous
Derived from your own body, reducing immune rejection risks.
Regenerative
Amplifies the body's natural repair system.
The Stem Cell Procedure
A simple, outpatient process
Step
Duration
Preparation
Stop taking NSAIDs at least two weeks before. Your doctor will clean and numb the harvest area.
Step
Duration
Harvesting
Stem cells are extracted from your own bone marrow (usually hip) or abdominal fat using a special needle/syringe.
Step
Duration
Processing
The sample is spun in a machine (centrifuge) to concentrate and separate the stem cells.
Step
Duration
Injection
Under X-ray or ultrasound guidance, the concentrated stem cells are injected directly into the diseased region.
Conditions We Treat
Knee
Arthritis, meniscus tears, and degenerative conditions.
Shoulder
Rotator cuff injuries and degenerative conditions.
Hip
Osteoarthritis and joint pain.
Cartilage & Soft Tissue
Traumatic ligament injuries and tendon tears.
Advantages of Stem Cell Therapy
Avoid Invasive Surgery
Improve quality of life while avoiding complications related to invasive surgical procedures.
Quick Procedure
The procedure is relatively easy, takes less than one hour (for bone marrow), and you can return home the same day.
Natural Healing
Uses cells derived from your own body (autologous), reducing the chances of immune rejection.
Post-Operative Care & Recovery
Return to Work
You will most likely be able to return to work the next day following your procedure.
Investment
Consultation fee redeemable against treatment
Who is a Good Candidate?
A consultation is required to determine suitability.
Safety & Trust
Risks and Complications
Stem cell therapy is generally considered a safe procedure with minimal complications. However, as with any medical procedure, complications can occur. Risks include infection, as stem cells may become contaminated with bacteria during preparation, or the risk of introducing an infection to the damaged tissue during injection. Rarely, an immune reaction may occur from injected stem cells.
Sterile Environment
Procedures performed in ultra-clean environments to minimize infection risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our treatments
Ready to Let Your Body Heal Itself?
Book a stem cell consultation to review imaging and candidacy.