We use stem cells derived from the patient's own body in order to minimize the risk of allergic reaction or disease transmission. We are able to get your own stem cells from bone marrow aspiration which is a procedure that can be done in the office with minimal discomfort. The two primary sources of bone marrow we use are the posterior iliac crest (posterior hip) and the proximal tibia below the knee. The bone marrow regenerates and multiple procedures can be done over time. After drawing out the bone marrow, the stem cells are then concentrated using FDA approved commercially available machine to create bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMC) which can then be injected into an area requiring stem cell therapy. The BMC concentrating process takes about 15 to 30 minutes in the office.
Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMC) contains Stem Cells, Platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), Fibroblast growth factor (FGF), Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Interleukin 8 (IL-8), Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-b), Insulin like growth factor 1, 2 (IGF-1,2), Epidermal growth factor (EGF), Platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), Fibroblast growth factor (FGF), Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Interleukin 8 (IL-8), Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-b), Insulin like growth factor 1, 2 (IGF-1,2) and Epidermal growth factor (EGF).
Scientists and doctors have made tremendous advances in moving regenerative medicine into the mainstream as a treatment for many diseases and disorders. Regenerative medicine takes advantage of our natural ability to heal ourselves by using the healthy adult stem cells found throughout the body. Laboratory and clinical research has shown that it is possible to use adult stem cells to restore lost, damaged or aging cells to effectively regenerate tissue and provide some patients with an alternative to surgery.
Adult stem cells were discovered over 40 years ago when researchers found that cells derived from bone marrow had the ability to form various tissues. Adult stem cells are early stage cells that, under the right conditions, are capable of developing into other types of cells and hold the potential to regenerate damaged tissue. AUTOLOGOUS ADULT STEM CELLS (ASCS) are being used to treat many types of chronic pain and degeneration. Currently doctors are treating shoulder, knee, hip, and spine degeneration, in addition to soft tissue (muscle, tendon, ligament) and other bone related injuries.
Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMC) contains Stem Cells, Platelet derived The first step is to determine if you are a good candidate for an adult stem cell procedure. Your physician will want a history of your injury and a physical examination along with any x-rays, and an MRI. While stem cell therapy may be appropriate for certain conditions, it is not applicable for every condition. However, it is has proven to be a viable option for several individuals suffering from pain. Good candidates for adult stem cell treatment usually are:
• A patient that wants to avoid the inherent complications that come with an invasive surgical procedure
• A pain sufferer that is interested in an option that offers potential for an overall improved quality of life
• A person who understands that surgery sets off a cascade of further degeneration, and is prepared to benefit from the body’s own regenerative mechanisms.
• Every patient is different, the success of the stem cell therapy is dependent on the severity of your condition and your body’s response to stem cell therapy.
Most patients will have some soreness for up to 48 hours that should decrease. Patients should not take aspirin or other NSAID medications after the procedure because they block the inflammatory response necessary for the procedures to help with healing. Patients can use Tylenol and other pain medications that don't block the inflammatory process. Patients should refrain from significant physical activity or sports activities for about a week after the procedure. Patients are re-evaluated about 6 weeks after the procedure to evaluate their progress and to make further treatment recommendations. Most insurance plans and Medicare/Medicaid do not currently cover Stem Cell Injection Therapy. Patients interested in having Stem Cell Injection Therapy are responsible for the full payment for the procedure. Please call our office for any questions on cost or payment plans.
Clinical indications for Stem Cell Injection Therapy from Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMC)
Stem cell therapy can be used to treat many conditions including knee injuries, arthritis, joint pain and inflammation, back injuries, and bodily pain. This is a complete list of conditions that stem cell therapy can treat: