Stem Cell Therapy

Stem cell therapy can be an effective treatment in the management of arthritis.

Adipose Derived Stem Cells are stem cells that have been derived from fat that has been surgically removed from the patient. These cells are specially harvested and activated before being injected into the damaged joint. These cells then stimulate repair of the joint by releasing natural growth factors. The procedure is generally safe and effective for reducing the level of osteoarthritis, pain and inflammation and effects can last from 12-18 months.  When the fat is harvested, extra cells can be banked for future use. If additional treatments are necessary, the patient does not have to have surgical retrieval again and will require only brief sedation for a follow up injection.  Because the cells are harvested from the same patient, there is no issue with rejection of the cells. There is no concern for cancerous transformation since these cells are adult stem cells.  Stem cell therapy is contraindicated in patients with active cancer due to the chance of the cells stimulating growth in the cancer as well as the target tissue.  Patients that are unstable for anesthesia are also not generally recommended for this procedure. Stem cell therapy patients are often able to stop or greatly reduce their need for NSAIDs and other pain relievers. Joint supplements are recommended to continue and after a brief wait period rehabilitative therapy treatments can improve function and long term outcome.

 Please contact our office if you have questions regarding stem cell therapy and whether treatment could help your pet. 

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