What is Stem Cell Therapy in Orthopedics?

How Is Stem Cell Therapy Performed?

Under local anaesthesia, a sample is taken from fat tissue in the abdomen or hip area or from bone marrow in the pelvis. The sample is processed in a sterile setting to obtain a product rich in reparative cells, which is injected into the damaged area in the same session, with ultrasound guidance when needed. Because the patient's own tissue is used, there is no rejection issue.

When Is It Considered?

• Early to moderate knee and hip osteoarthritis
• Limited cartilage defects
• Persistent chronic tendon problems
• As a support to surgery in some meniscus and ligament injuries

Frequently Asked Questions

Can stem cell therapy replace joint replacement?

Stem cell therapy aims to reduce pain and improve function in patients whose joint structure is still largely preserved. It does not replace a prosthesis in advanced bone-on-bone osteoarthritis. Suitability is decided by the physician based on examination and imaging.