Stem cell treatment of joints

Mesenchymal stem cells are used to repair damaged joint tissues, including cartilage, muscle, and bone. Their administration into the affected area accelerates recovery after injuries and surgeries, and also helps slow age-related changes, improve mobility, and reduce inflammation and pain. This is a modern minimally invasive procedure that activates the body’s natural regenerative processes, reducing the need for medication and surgery.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Orthopedics and Traumatology

 Stem cell therapy is a modern area of medicine that has demonstrated effectiveness in both clinical studies and real-world practice. The source of these cells is the patient’s own adipose tissue. The biological material derived from it influences interleukins, which regulate inflammatory and regenerative processes in the joint, helping to reduce inflammation and stimulate tissue repair.

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In modern medical practice, the use of microfragmented adipose tissue is combined with other treatment methods — both conservative and surgical. This innovative approach can significantly improve the patient’s condition by accelerating rehabilitation, reducing pain, restoring mobility, and providing long-term results.

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Our clinic uses technology approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Although it has only recently been introduced in Ukraine, it is already widely used in Europe and North America. We selected this technology due to its combination of high effectiveness, safety, and versatility.

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Diseases and conditions treated with adipose-derived cells

 In orthopedics and traumatology, treatment using adipose-derived cells is indicated for the following conditions:

• osteoarthritis of the knee, hip, shoulder, and other joints;
• damage to articular cartilage;
• injuries of various origins, including sports injuries;
• age-related and degenerative changes affecting bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons;
• delayed fracture healing;
• osteonecrosis.

Adipose-derived cell therapy is also used during the rehabilitation period after surgical interventions, physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory treatment, or steroid injections. It promotes the restoration of bone and cartilage tissue and may serve as an alternative to joint replacement in selected cases. Its use significantly enhances the effectiveness of the primary treatment program and shortens the rehabilitation period.

Contraindications to adipose-derived cell therapy

1. Malignant neoplasms.
2. Local infections at the injection site or systemic infections.
3. Coagulation disorders or use of anticoagulants.
4. Exacerbation of autoimmune diseases.
5. Decompensated heart failure or diabetes mellitus.
6. Individual hypersensitivity to materials used in the procedure.
7. Pregnancy and lactation.

What are the advantages of mesenchymal stem cell therapy?

 The main advantage of adipose-derived cell therapy is its high effectiveness. In the treatment of joint diseases, more than 85% of our patients report a significant reduction or complete relief of pain, along with improved mobility within two years after the procedure. Laboratory studies indicate that within a few months after therapy, a layer of fibrous cartilage may form, suggesting tissue repair and functional improvement.

Mesenchymal stem cell therapy also offers the following advantages:

• Safety. Only purified cells derived from the patient’s own adipose tissue are injected into the affected area — without enzymes, chemical additives, or other components. This approach minimizes the risk of rejection, allergic reactions, and inflammation.
• Minimal invasiveness. The procedure causes minimal discomfort and does not leave significant scars or marks. It is performed under local anesthesia, with or without sedation, which reduces risks and patient stress.
• Long-term effect. Stem cell therapy not only relieves pain but also initiates tissue regeneration processes. This leads to improved mobility, enhanced quality of life, and sustained clinical benefits over 2–3 years.

Stages of the stem cell procedure

1. Adipose tissue harvesting. Mesenchymal stem cells are obtained through a small skin puncture in a procedure often referred to as mini-liposuction. On average, about 100 ml of adipose tissue is collected. A small amount of fat is gently aspirated from the abdomen, flanks, or thighs using a fine needle under local anesthesia.
2. Processing. A modern disposable system is used to process the adipose tissue. We use an FDA-approved device to purify and microfragment the tissue and remove impurities, preserving its beneficial biological properties. The patient’s own adipose tissue is processed in a closed system using saline solution to remove blood, oil, and cellular debris, while reducing tissue size through minimal manipulation.
3. Injection. The physician injects the processed material into the affected area using a fine needle. The procedure is minimally painful and usually takes less than one hour. Adipose tissue contains important regenerative components, including adipocytes, preadipocytes, pericytes, signaling cells, microvascular elements, and extracellular matrix structures. Preserving this microarchitecture is essential for maintaining normal cellular function during tissue repair. After the procedure, the patient can return home the same day without hospitalization.

Price of the procedure at Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma Clinic

The cost of adipose-derived cell therapy depends on several factors, including the nature of the injury or disease, the location of the affected area, severity, and extent of tissue damage. To determine the exact cost and suitability of the procedure in your case, we recommend scheduling a consultation at Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma Clinic. You can submit a request on the website or contact us by phone.