Stem Cell Treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
COPD refers to chronic bronchitis and emphysema, a pair of two commonly co-existing diseases of the lungs in which the airways become narrowed. This leads to a limitation of the flow of air to and from the lungs causing shortness of breath. In contrast to asthma, the limitation of airflow is poorly reversible and usually gets progressively worse over time.
The XCell-Center COPD Treatment
The XCell-Center's COPD treatment differs from standard methods because it is a drug-free alternative focused on repairing the lungs.
The entire procedure requires patients to stay in Germany for 4 or 5 nights.
Bone Marrow Collection
On the
first day, bone marrow is collected from the patient's iliac crest
(hip bone) using thin-needle mini-puncture under local anesthesia.
Although some pain is felt when the needle is inserted, most
patients do not find the bone marrow collection procedure
particularly painful. The entire procedure normally takes about 30
minutes.
Once the bone marrow collection is complete, patients may return to their hotel and go about normal activities.
More detailed information on the bone marrow collection procedure is available in the Bone Marrow Informed Consent document (PDF file).
Laboratory Processing
The next
day, the stem cells are processed from the bone marrow in a
state-of-the-art, government approved (cGMP) laboratory. In the
lab, both the quantity and quality of the stem cells are measured.
These cells have the potential to transform into multiple types of
cells and are capable of regenerating or repairing
damaged lung tissue.
Stem Cell Implantation
On the third day, the stem cells are implanted back into the patient by angiography under local anesthesia or intravenously depending upon each patient's individual medical needs.
Angiography - A special catheter (thin hollow wire) is inserted into the femoral artery and then guided forward under x-ray scanning until it reaches the targeted areas where the stem cells are then injected. The angiography procedure takes about 90 minutes. Afterwards, the patient will spend 2 or 3 hours in the recovery room to ensure that the entry site is not bleeding.
IV - The stem cells are implanted directly into the bloodstream via intravenous injection. This procedure is very straighforward, quick and safe. Patients may leave the clinic very soon after the IV injection is complete.
Cost
The price of the COPD angiography treatment is 9,925 Euros. IV treatment is 5,545 Euros.
Evaluation Process
To begin the treatment evaluation process, you must complete an online medical history form. Once you've completed the online medical history and submitted it, a patient relations consultant will contact you within 3 business days. He or she will assist you with the rest of the evaluation process. Upon treatment approval, your consultant will also assist you with treatment scheduling and trip preparation.
If you will be in Germany, you may also schedule an in-person consultation/evaluation with an XCell-Center physician. You may also request a "fast-track" evaluation and treatment schedule.
