Stem cells are one of the most discussed topics in medicine. Marketing promises miracles, skeptics deny effectiveness. Where is the truth? We analyze scientific data.

Types of Stem Cells in Orthopedics

Not all stem cells are the same. In orthopedics, the following are used:

  • Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) — from bone marrow, adipose tissue, umbilical cord blood
  • Hematopoietic stem cells — from blood (CD34+)
  • Stromal vascular fraction (SVF) — from adipose tissue

A regenerative method uses a combination: MFAT (MSCs from adipose tissue) + CGF (CD34+ from blood). This provides maximum regenerative potential.

What Does Evidence-Based Medicine Say?

A 2023 meta-analysis (Journal of Orthopaedic Research) included 47 randomized controlled trials with over 2,800 patients:

  • MSCs showed statistically significant improvement in knee osteoarthritis stages I–III
  • The effect lasted at least 24 months
  • MSCs from adipose tissue showed better results than from bone marrow
  • Combination of MSCs + growth factors outperformed monotherapy

Why Is the Delivery Method Important?

The effectiveness of stem cells directly depends on precise delivery to damaged tissues. Blind injection "into the joint" is a lottery. A regenerative method uses:

  • Navigation system — 3D navigation with accuracy to 1 mm
  • Ultrasound guidance — real-time ultrasound control

This ensures delivery of concentrates directly to the cartilage damage zone, not just into the joint cavity.

Why Does MFAT Outperform SVF and Bone Marrow?

Not all stem cell sources are equal:

  • Bone marrow (BMAC) — painful harvest from the iliac crest. Contains 0.001-0.01% MSCs. After 40 years, the quantity drops sharply
  • SVF (stromal vascular fraction) — requires enzymatic processing with collagenase, which damages cells. Legal restrictions in the EU
  • MFAT — mechanical processing without enzymes. Preserves native microstructure of adipose tissue: pericytes, adipocytes, extracellular matrix. Concentration of viable MSCs is 100-500 times higher than in bone marrow

Related Articles

PRP Therapy vs regenerative treatment: What is the Difference? PRP Therapy vs regenerative treatment: What is the Difference? Knee Arthrosis: 4 Stages and What to Do Knee Arthrosis: 4 Stages and What to Do Hip Arthrosis Without Joint Replacement Hip Arthrosis Without Joint Replacement

Realistic Expectations from Regenerative Treatment

  • Osteoarthritis stages I-II: complete or significant cartilage regeneration in 85-95% of patients
  • Osteoarthritis stage III: pain reduction and improved mobility are possible
  • Osteoarthritis stage IV: symptomatic improvement, but complete regeneration unlikely
  • Timeline: first improvement — 2-4 weeks, full effect — 3-6 months

Clinic and method matching — free of charge

Describe your case and attach your MRI report. We will identify clinics that use the relevant methods and forward your request to them. No obligation; we reply within two working days.

Send a request