Stem Cell Technologies

5 Common Misconceptions About Stem Cells

  With Stem Cell Therapy becoming a growing topic within the medical community, there are bound to be many questions about what the protocols and procedures entail. Stem cell research has historically been a controversial subject, but research has shown that it is possible to harvest and utilize these powerful cells in increasingly more ethical, easier, and successful ways. To put your mind at ease, here are 5 common misconceptions about stem cell therapy that we’ve debunked for you.

 

1. Stem cells are unethical

When some people hear “stem cells”, they instantly think that they are derived from fetuses. We DO NOT use embryonic stem cells- rather, we use adult stem cells. “Adult stem cells can be found in plentiful amounts throughout an adult’s body from sources like muscle tissue, organs (including the heart, lungs, etc.), bone marrow and fat.” [1] At Regeneris Medical, we use the patient’s very own adult adipose (fat) cells by way of a mini-liposuction in which we attain only 50 mL of fat- all under local anesthesia.

You can rest assured knowing that there are no ethical issues with our protocol.

 

2. Stem cell research is illegal

Stem cell research is not illegal. It is in fact becoming a mainstay within medical and research communities because it has shown promising results that are to be further studied. [2]

Researchers “must follow the guidelines from both federal and state legislation. At the federal level, stem cell research is regulated by organizations like the FDA and the National Institutes of Health. In addition to these guidelines, individual states may further regulate the use and research of stem cells.” [3]

 

3. It is possible that your body will reject stem cell therapy

Not with us- because we use the patient’s own stem cells, there is no risk of rejection. Your adipose cells are autologous, which means that your body will take to the treatment without risks of rejection.

 

4. The best source for stem cells is Bone Marrow

One group of stem cells that are sought after during harvesting are called mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Although Bone marrow contains MSCs, “this category of cell can be found in adipose (fat) tissue at nearly 2000 times the frequency of bone marrow.” [4]

Discoveries in recent years have suggested that adult stem cells might have the ability to differentiate into cell types from different germ layers. Mesenchymal stem cells or MSCs are multipotent stromal cells that can differentiate into a variety of cell types including: osteoblasts (bone cells), chondrocytes (cartilage), connective tissues and adipocytes (fat cells). This phenomenon is referred to as stem cell transdifferentiation or plasticity.

Another important differentiation between adipose derived stromal cells and stem cells from marrow lies in the fact that harvested fat cells retain many of the surrounding perivascular cells and tissue which have also been shown to have a huge regenerative and autoimmune effect through cell-cell interactions.  (Alexander, R.W. (2012). Understanding Adipose-derived Stromal Vascular Fraction (AD-SVF) Cell Biology and Use on the Basis of Cellular, Chemical, Structural and Paracrine Components: A Concise Review. Journal of Prolotherapy, 2012, vol. 4, pp.855-869.).  These effects are lost when marrow derived stem cells are obtained.

Our adipose-harvesting protocol is not only much easier on the patient, but has shown to be effective as well.

 

5. Stem cells give you superpowers

Not quite. Stem cell therapy can do wonders for a growing number of ailments- thus helping patients to be able to get back to doing most (if not all) activities they once did before their afflictions.

In that regard, patients may feel like they have super powers!

 

Who benefits from stem cell therapy? Change your life today:

Treatments using stem cell therapy are not exhaustive and growing in number. Take a look at our medical specialties if you think that you may benefit from stem cell therapy…

 

Contact Us

Take control of your life today- call us at (855) 734-3678

 

Sources:

[1] https://okyanos.com/stem-cell-therapy-myths/

 

[2] https://health.clevelandclinic.org/2014/03/busting-4-myths-about-stem-cell-research/

 

[3] https://www.corcell.com/blog/5-stem-cell-myths-debunked/

 

[4] https://okyanos.com/stem-cell-therapy-myths/

 

 

DISCLAIMER

Regeneris Medical® and affiliates do not claim that stem cell treatments or cellular therapies are a cure for any condition or disease. Adipose-derived stem cell therapies are investigational and are not a part of  FDA-approved stem cell therapies. The information and opinions on this website are for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for advice from a medical professional. If you think you could benefit from stem cell therapies, we suggest patients research relevant information in addition to the information on our site. Be sure to consult a physician before deciding to participate in any investigational therapies.

Thank You to The Rotary Club of Attleboro, MA!

“We want to help everyone become a little younger, and a little more active” Regeneris Medical would like to extend our sincerest thanks to The Rotary Club of Attleboro, Massachusetts (est. 1935) for inviting Dr. Welter to come speak at their luncheon. Dr. Welter presented to members about the history of our group, our orthopedic and cosmetic services, the revolutionary technology and procedures we use, and how we believe that offering tomorrow’s healthcare can not only benefit the individual, but also the community.

 

Treating Osteoarthritis of the Knee with Us

One service line that many people were very engaged with was our ability to treat osteoarthritis of the knee through our medical protocol. At Regeneris Medical, we utilize the anti-inflammatory and healing effects of Stromal Vascular Fraction (SVF, which is rich in mesenchymal stem cells and growth factors) and PRP autologous platelet rich plasma (to optimize the effects of the SVF). The procedure is performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia, and is all done at the time of SVF harvesting and procurement. The harvesting of SVF and the procedure  take approximately 5 hours.

In terms of the healing period and cost, it is much easier on your body, and costs less than opting for a surgical knee replacement.

For more information on the treatment, click here!

 

Regenerative Anti-Aging and the Regeneris Face Lift

As we age, we lose facial volume. Fortunately, you can restore lost volume and revitalize your facial appearance with a minimally invasive Regeneris Face Lift procedure that combines fat transfer, PRP and stem cells.

In the last 20 years, surgeons have been documenting some long-term benefits found from fat cell transfers, including the ability to maintain volume as well as regenerative evidence.

Stem cells certainly have a role to play in regenerative medicine and cosmetic surgery. However, very few surgeons are experienced using Stem Cell + PRP activated fat grafts. At Regeneris Medical we perform SVF/PRP procedures since 2009 for variety of medical and aesthetic conditions.

The Regeneris facial is performed in our office. Results are natural, free of incisions, and can be expected to last longer than traditional facial rejuvenation options on the market.

Click here to find out more about the Regeneris Face Lift and our aesthetic procedures.

 

Hair Restoration Using Regenerative Therapy

Because hair follicles do contain stem cells, researchers have predicted that we can treat hair loss through an activation of the stem cells progenitor cells. Regeneris Medical has developed a protocol in which we utilize patient's own stem cells to restore hair growth. This therapy is expected to work by activating already existing stem cells on the scalp. For PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) Therapy,  the first step is to simply draw blood. We then spin the blood in a centrifuge and extract the platelets. The next step is to then activate the platelets, add some naturally-occurring growth factors, and return it to your body through a series of pinpoint injections on the scalp.

Stromal Vascular Fraction (SVF) is a method used to extract Adult Stem Cells from your own body. Stem cells are your natural healing cells, and act as the repair system in your body by replenishing inactive cellular material. The procedure entails performing a mini-liposuction (around 50 mL of fat tissue) from the belly under local anesthesia. Mesenchymal stem cells are extracted from the tissue, which are then incubated. The result is injected directly into areas of concern. Once these stem cells are administered, they have the ability to repair and re-activate dormant follicles, forming new cells of mesenchymal origin.

We use a local anesthetic to numb the scalp, and this can be repeated as many times as necessary to keep the patient comfortable.

After the procedure, results can be seen based on the speed at which the patient’s hair grows. You can expect to start seeing a visible difference within 4-6 months. However, improvement continues up to 18 months.

Learn more about our hair restoration services here!

 

Contact Us

Your body has the power to heal itself. Call Regeneris Medical at 1-855-734-3678 to book your consultation today.

 

DISCLAIMER

Regeneris Medical® and affiliates do not claim that stem cell treatments or cellular therapies are a cure for any condition or disease. Adipose-derived stem cell therapies are investigational and are not a part of  FDA-approved stem cell therapies. The information and opinions on this website are for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for advice from a medical professional. If you think you could benefit from stem cell therapies, we suggest patients research relevant information in addition to the information on our site. Be sure to consult a physician before deciding to participate in any investigational therapies.

DON’T REPLACE. REGENERATE!

  Joint deterioration is one of the most common age related medical conditions. As people age, they have trouble making their joints last as long as they do. The relief from pain provided by surgical reconstruction is compelling. As a result, Hip and Knee orthopedic surgical implants market is expected to reach $33 billion by 2022. [1]

However, knee replacement surgery isn’t something to take lightly. There are many issues that come along with the procedure.

That’s the catch 22 with traditional healing methods. If you go through with surgery, you’ll have a much longer, more difficult and painful recovery. But if you forego it, you’re stuck with an increasingly achy degenerative disease.

So what do you do?: Regenerate.

The Surgical Option: A Long and Exhausting Road

Normally, surgery is the option that most people think of or are referred to when looking for a more permanent solution to osteoarthritis of the knee. During the surgical procedure…

...a surgeon removes the damaged joint and replaces it with a plastic or metal device. Side effects of this surgery include infections at the incision site and blood clots. Recovery from this procedure takes several weeks and requires extensive physical and occupational therapy. It is possible that replacing your arthritic knee won’t be the end of your OA knee problems. You may need additional surgeries and even another knee replacement during your lifetime. [2]

Surgery is risky and costly business. These risks include pain and discomfort following surgery, infection, instability, aseptic loosening, and the very real problem that the surgery will not relieve chronic pain. [3]

In terms of cost, the average price of knee replacement surgery is $49,500 in the US...and that number doesn’t even include the cost of additional inpatient (which can double your bill) and outpatient (such as physical therapy, follow-up visits with your surgeon/doctor, and lab work) charges. [4]

There’s a lot at stake when it comes to surgery to treat OA of the knee. But at Regeneris Medical, we can help keep your knees--and your finances--safe.

Regenerative Medicine: Heal Your Own Knees With Our Help

At Regeneris Medical, we’ve developed our own degenerative knee disease protocol that will help get you out of that space between a rock and a hard place. In our procedure, we exploit the anti-inflammatory and healing effects of SVF (rich in mesenchymal stem cells and growth factors) and PRP autologous platelet rich plasma (to optimize the effects of the SVF). The deployment protocol performed under local anesthesia is all done as an outpatient at the time of SVF harvesting and procurement. The entire cellular surgical procedure takes approximately 5 hours. [5]

The best part? The recovery time is much shorter and easier, the cost is much lower, and you get to keep your own knees.

Replacement vs. Regeneration

In comparison to surgery, similar--or even better--results for joint pain relief are achievable by undergoing regenerative procedures:

 

screen-shot-2016-11-16-at-4-32-44-pm

 

Regenerative medicine is widely seen as the next major innovation in healthcare. The ability to repair and replace damaged cells and tissue using emerging technologies such as stem cells offers the potential of lifetime cures for unmet medical needs including…

  • Knee, Hip, or Shoulder problems and pain
  • Neck Arthritis
  • Back Arthritis and Spine Disease
  • Elbow and Hand problems

...and even...

  • Neurological and Autoimmune Diseases such as Parkinson’s and Lupus
CONTACT REGENERIS MEDICAL FOR A CONSULTATION

If you’re interested in learning more about this revolutionary alternative to surgery for OA of the knee, call Regeneris Medical at 1-855-734-3678 to book your consultation today.

[1] https://globenewswire.com/news-release/2016/01/25/804160/0/en/Hip-and-Knee-Orthopedic-Surgical-Implants-Market-Is-Expected-To-Reach-33-Billon-By-2022-Radiant-Insights-Inc.html

[2] http://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis-stages-of-oa-of-the-knee#4

[3] http://center4research.org/medical-care-for-adults/osteoporosis/obesity-and-knee-surgery/

[4] http://www.healthline.com/health/total-knee-replacement-surgery/understanding-costs

[5] http://www.regenerismedical.com/medical-specialties/orthopedics/knee-problems/

 

DISCLAIMER

Regeneris Medical® and affiliates do not claim that stem cell treatments or cellular therapies are a cure for any condition or disease. Adipose-derived stem cell therapies are investigational and are not a part of  FDA-approved stem cell therapies. The information and opinions on this website are for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for advice from a medical professional. If you think you could benefit from stem cell therapies, we suggest patients research relevant information in addition to the information on our site. Be sure to consult a physician before deciding to participate in any investigational therapies.

Could PRP Have Helped This US Olympian Recover From Sports Injuries Before The Games Even Began?

Many of us are excited to watch the 2016 Summer Olympics being held in Rio de Janeiro. Therefore, Regeneris Medical is proud to announce that our partner practice, Tristan Medical Enterprises (TME) was recently given the opportunity to be a sponsor of the 2016 Olympic Games. Congratulations TME and all participating athletes!chronicle-olympics-1

Olympic sponsorship has given our health professional staff reason to ponder the incredible effort athletes put into training for the Olympics, and how we treat sports injuries at Regeneris Medical. The magnificent effort and athletic prowess of Olympians inspire us all, but especially those of us who exercise for purposes of recreation, health or athletic competition. (That is hopefully a large majority of people!)

Despite the rewards of athletic training and effort (such as weight loss or winning a game), knowing the pain of a sports-related joint injury can still be enough to hold some athletes back.

Types of Sports Injuries

During an interview, Olympic Volleyball player Brooke Sweat describes her rotator cuff injury and her fear of not being able to qualify for the 2016 Summer Olympics (due to the six to nine month recovery required with traditional, invasive surgical treatment initially recommended to her).

All I could think about was how Regeneris Medical can help professional athletes like Ms. Sweat (as well as non-athletes!) with our innovative, cellular therapies. Unfortunately, Ms. Sweat says she opted for a less invasive arthroscopic surgery to “clean it up,” but one which still required weeks of recovery.

(Watch the interview here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLx6Ur5G3VM)

Sports injuries can take the form of a muscle sprain or strain, a dislocated joint, a fractured bone, or tears of tendons or ligaments. In athletes of any age, an injury can result in missing competition, work or school, in addition to experiencing temporary pain and disability while the body repairs itself.

According to the National Health Interview Survey, publications exist which estimate that there are 26 sports and recreational exercise related injuries for every 1,000 persons in the United States.

Joint Injury in Older Adults

Not unlike professional athletes like Ms. Sweat, older adults may live with chronic pain due to past sports injuries, overuse injuries, or a lifetime of repetitive-motion or other physical stresses.

Some conditions such a person may experience include degenerative disc disease of the spine, or osteoarthritis of any joint. These conditions can be debilitating and may prevent the person from participating in athletic activities or even completing household chores.

Pain caused by injuries may lead to other health issues, and is most often resolved with extensive surgical repair or total joint replacement. However, surgical solutions can be painful, and require long recovery periods.

Regenerative Cellular Therapies

Our health-care professionals at Regeneris Medical are working hard to spread the word that surgery is NOT your only option! Regeneris Medical offers cellular therapies that may augment the body’s natural healing process, and have potential to benefit patients with sports injuries and/or chronic pain.

There are two types of cellular that we specialize in:

• Platelet rich plasma (PRP) • Stromal vascular fraction (SVF)

PRP is a concentrated form of activated platelets. Whenever tissue damage occurs, a natural healing process occurs in which platelets from a person’s own blood release bioactive proteins that initiate and facilitate healing. Regeneris Medical uses a PRP therapy that enhances the natural healing process by drawing and separating platelets from the patient’s own blood and injecting the platelets into the injured joint. Within the separated platelets are growth factors that signal the cells to multiply and to repair injured tissues.

A PRP therapy session takes approximately one hour. Tissue repair begins immediately and platelets remain active for up to 18 months, during which time they release potent growth factors. Some mild discomfort immediately following the procedure can be expected at the site of injection.

SVF is another method of cellular therapy that shows tremendous promise in healing and regenerating wounded joint tissue. During SVF, stem cells are extracted from a small amount of the patient’s fat cells, which are typically taken from the abdomen in a non-cosmetic, mini-liposuction procedure. The Regeneris Medical doctor can extract up to 10 million stem cells from the harvested fat cells, which are then injected directly into the injured joint. An expected growth and healing cascade occurs with stem cells being differentiated into specific tissues that need repair or replacement.

SVF procedures take about three to four hours to perform. There is a brief healing period from the liposuction, and one surgical stitch on either side of the navel. Generally patients can return to work the following day. And while PRP and SVF are effective administered on their own, injecting PRP and SVF together has the potential to produce exceptional results.

Healing

Cellular therapies offer alternatives to more traditional treatment modalities, which can be invasive and are followed by a lengthy recovery.

Think of how PRP and SVF therapies could have enabled Brook Sweat to recover completely and quickly from her rotator cuff injury… She could have potentially returned to Olympic training pain-free and fully healed, without facing an invasive surgery and lengthy recovery period after.

For the average patient, however, cellular therapies like PRP and SVF offer the possibility of resuming normal life activities and pursuing, not contemplating, the joy of physical activity and athletics.

The Regeneris Medical Blog is a resource containing general information about potential uses of stem cell therapies for hair loss, orthopedic injuries, and autoimmune disorders, as well as updates on other popular health topics. The information contained within is not medical advice, and should not replace advice from a medical doctor. If you have questions about your health, consult a physician first.