Stem cell treatment of Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that mostly affects the cartilage. Cartilage is the slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint. Healthy cartilage allows bones to glide over each other. It also helps absorb shock of movement.
In osteoarthritis, the top layer of cartilage breaks down and wears away. This causes the bones under the cartilage to rub together. The rubbing causes pain, swelling, and loss of motion of the joint. Over time, the joint may lose its normal shape. Also, bone spurs may grow on the edges of the joint. Bits of bone or cartilage can break off and float inside the joint space, which causes more pain and damage.
The XCell-Center Osteoarthritis treatment
The XCell-Center's osteoarthritis treatment differs from standard methods because it is a drug-free alternative that has the potential to regenerate cartilage as well as develop new blood vessels, thus improving function and reducing pain.
The entire procedure requires patients to stay in Germany for 3 or 4 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
tissue.
Stem Cell Implantation
On the third day, the stem cells are implanted back into the patient by direct injection into the affected joint(s) under local anesthesia.
In Patients' Own Words
Wendy Funston - 57 years
old
"...The treatment was done at the beginning of November (2009)
and since then I HAVE BEEN PAIN FREE!!!!"
Vissilis Ferentouros - 49 years
old
"The post-treatment MRI showed a distinct decrease of the
subchondral edema."
John Robson
- 61 years old
"The pain in my left ankle is virtually gone"
Cost
The price of an ostheoarthritis stem cell treatment is €7,995 (Euro).
The price of an ostheoarthritis stem cell treatment under CT guidance is €9,545 (Euro).
Treatment Evaluation Process
In order to be evaluated for treatment, patients 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. 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.
