Stem cell therapy is a major breakthrough in the field of orthopedics, offering hope to patients with chronic joint diseases, injuries and degenerative diseases. It is an advanced therapy that uses the body's own repair mechanisms to potentially restore damaged tissue, offering an alternative to traditional surgery.
Stem cells are characterized by their unique ability to grow into different cell types. In the field of orthopedics, stem cells offer the possibility of regenerating bone, cartilage and other tissues that are more prone to injury or other conditions.
The main types of stem cells used in treatments in the field of orthopedics are:
- Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). These cells are usually derived from bone marrow or adipose tissue, and can differentiate into various types of cells, such as bone, cartilage and muscle. Mesenchymal stem cells are most commonly used because of their easier access and ability to regenerate the musculoskeletal system.
- Embryonic stem cells. These cells, although they can be transformed into any type of cell in the body, have a limited and controversial use mainly for ethical reasons.
How do stem cells act in healing?
Stem cells contribute to healing in two main ways:
- Differentiation. They can be transformed into specific types of cells needed in the body, such as chondrocytes for cartilage repair or osteoblasts for bone growth.
- Paracrine effects. Stem cells secrete growth factors and cytokines that reduce inflammation, mitigate pain and stimulate the body's own stem cells to initiate repair processes.
When is stem cell therapy needed in orthopedics?
Stem cell therapy is indicated in various orthopedic conditions, especially when conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, medication or even surgery have not provided sufficient relief to patients. Indications for stem cell use include:
- Osteoarthritis, as stem cells lend themselves to cartilage regeneration in degenerative joint disease.
- Rotator cuff tears, to facilitate healing in tendon and ligament injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries, for possible improvement of results in lesions of nerves and spinal tissues.
- Bone fractures, to accelerate healing and reduce recovery time.
Many studies that have been published report promising results regarding the use of stem cells in orthopedics and more specifically in tissue regeneration and pain reduction. However, the success of the treatment varies depending on the general health of the patient, his / her age, the severity of the condition and the protocol used each time.
Benefits of stem cell therapy in orthopedics
Stem cell therapy offers many advantages over traditional orthopedic treatments. The most important of these are:
- Minimally invasive approach, as the procedure is performed through injections rather than incisions.
- Less recovery time and faster return to normal activities.
- Less risk of complications, compared to surgery.
- Unlike most traditional treatments that only relieve symptoms, stem cell therapy has the potential to restore normal tissue function.
Stem cell therapy has the potential to dramatically change the therapeutic outcomes in a number of conditions. As medical research evolves and regulatory frameworks are constantly being developed, stem cell therapy could in the (near) future offer even more alternatives to conventional treatments.
To find out more about the use of stem cells in orthopedics and how they can help you, contact us at 6943903343 (secretariat) or 6949196061 (doctor) and orthopedikos-papagiannopoulos.gr and make an appointment.
