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Cell-based methods and PRP: key facts
| Cell-based methods (BMAC, MFAT, SVF) | PRP | |
|---|---|---|
| What is injected | A mix of bone marrow or fat cells; the share of stem cells is small | A concentrate of platelets and growth factors |
| Procedure | Bone marrow or fat harvest under local anaesthesia, then injection | Blood draw, then injection |
| Recovery | A few days, soreness at the harvest site | 1–2 days |
| Evidence | Limited, studies are small | Better studied; moderate in knee osteoarthritis |
| Cost | Considerably higher | Lower |
What to check in an offer
- Promises to “grow new cartilage” or “cure osteoarthritis for good” — studies do not support this.
- Laboratory-expanded cells offered without an authorisation for an advanced therapy product.
- No clear statement of which preparation is injected and how many procedures are needed.
- No written estimate and plan before the procedure.
We send your images to several clinics and help you compare exactly what each offers. The preparation table is on the PRP, CGF, BMAC and SVF page.
Scientific evidence
Reviews and guidelines this comparison is based on:
- Pas HI et al. Stem cell injections in knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review of the literature. Br J Sports Med, 2017.
- Belk JW et al. Platelet-rich plasma versus hyaluronic acid for knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Am J Sports Med, 2021.
- Bannuru RR et al. OARSI guidelines for the non-surgical management of knee, hip, and polyarticular osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage, 2019.
Frequently asked questions about stem cells and PRP
Do stem cells grow new cartilage?
There is no convincing evidence of this in humans. The main effect appears to be on inflammation.
Are cell-based methods safe?
Your own cells obtained in a single procedure are usually well tolerated; pain and swelling at the harvest site are possible. Laboratory products require authorisation.
Who should consider cells?
The doctor decides. They are sometimes discussed in moderate osteoarthritis when other methods have not helped, or in early hip necrosis.
Does insurance cover it?
Usually not. Each clinic quotes its price in advance.
How can RegenPAS help?
RegenPAS is a patient service centre in Munich, not a clinic. We review your images and symptoms and send a request to several partner clinics at once. Clinics that can accept you send their own conditions and price; prices differ between clinics, and you choose the option that suits you. The coordinator replies within 24 hours, and a clinic physician’s preliminary opinion follows in 1–3 business days. We then arrange the appointment, visa invitation, interpreter, transfers and accommodation. Treatment decisions are made by the clinic physician. Contact a coordinator.
Have you been offered stem cell treatment? Send the offer and your images
Send your MRI or ultrasound and describe where and when it hurts. The coordinator replies within 24 hours; a clinic physician gives an opinion in 1–3 business days.
Send images