Do your regenerative procedure use embryonic stem cells?
No. We only use autologous stem cells. The stem cells that are injected into your body come strictly from your own body.
How about all those controversial news stories about stem cell treatments?
Those stories are about the use of embryonic stem cell therapies for the treatment of neurologic conditions and/or cancer. Those treatments are provided in clinics overseas. Those are not the type of stem cells we use, and we only treat orthopedic conditions.
Do your regenerative procedure involve cultivation of the stem cells in a lab?
No. The stem cells that are extracted from your bone marrow or fat are injected into the injured area on the same day. We do not grow stem cells in a lab. The clinical use of stem cells grown and manipulated in a lab is prohibited in the USA.
Is this regenerative treatment approved by the FDA?
The FDA does not regulate medical procedures performed by licensed doctors. Since we only use stem cells from your own body and we do not manipulate them or grow them in a lab, the FDA does not object to this procedure.
Can stem cells grow into tumors?
Autologous stem cells that have not been manipulated in a lab (like the ones we use) have not been associated with an increased risk of malignancies.
What are the potential benefits of your regenerative treatment?
Patients can see a significant decrease in pain and an improvement in function. This may eliminate the need for more aggressive treatments such as surgery.
Are there any side effects to your regenerative treatment?
Our regenerative treatment is a very safe procedure. Other than the possible side effects that can happen after any injection: localized soreness, infection, etc, there are no specific side effects inherent to our procedure. There is no risk of rejection of the stem cells or platelets as they come from your own body. It certainly has less risks and complications than a surgery.
Is bone marrow the only possible source of autologous stem cells?
No. Stem cells can also be obtained from fat. Abdominal fat is particularly rich in stem cells. At this time, however, we prefer to use stem cells from bone marrow for our orthopedic applications.
How many treatments are needed?
While responses to treatment vary, most people will feel better with just one treatment. More severe damage may require more than one treatment. There are no limits in the number of treatments you can have. The risks and side effects do not change with the number of injections.
Is this regenerative treatment right for me?
Only a physician can determine that. Let us examine your case. The initial consultation is free. Keep in mind that this procedure is less aggressive and less expensive than surgery. It will heal tissue with minimal or no scarring and with virtually no down time.
Are there any special instructions?
You are restricted from the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) one week prior to the procedure and throughout the course of treatments.
Initially the procedure may cause some localized soreness and discomfort. Ice may be applied to the area as needed.
How soon can I resume my regular physical activities?
Within a few days after the first injection you may be able to resume regular physical activities.
What types of problems can be treated with this regenerative procedure?
The main application of this regenerative treatment is for degenerative disc disease and chronic damage to tendons and ligaments. But, it can also be used to treat chronic bursitis, avascular necrosis of the bone, and disc bulges of the spine.
Are there any contraindications to this regenerative treatment?
If you have an active cancer or infections, or if you are taking any blood thinners, you may not be a candidate for this procedure.
Does insurance cover this regenerative treatment?
No. At the present time our regenerative procedure is not covered by Medicare or private health insurance companies.
