Cell therapy (MFAT, SVF, BMAC) — regenerative method

What is orthopedic cell therapy

Autologous mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) — adult progenitor cells from the patient's own tissue. They have three key properties the method is built upon:

Chondrocyte differentiation

In the joint environment MSCs can become chondrocytes and synthesize cartilage matrix (type II collagen, proteoglycans).

Paracrine effect

MSCs secrete hundreds of biologically active molecules (exosomes, cytokines, growth factors), stimulating the patient's own cells to regenerate. Often more important than direct differentiation.

Immunomodulation

MSCs suppress pathological inflammation (IL-10, TGF-β, PGE2) without causing immunosuppression. Effective when an inflammatory component is present in arthrosis.

Important note

Regenerative treatment does NOT use embryonic, fetal or induced pluripotent (iPSC) cells. Only the patient's own cells, no genetic manipulation. This is a mandatory EU regulatory requirement.

MFAT vs SVF vs BMAC

MFAT Ortho

Mechanically processed adipose tissue. Stroma and pericytes are preserved. Harvest — mini-liposuction of 20–60 mL from the abdomen/thigh under local anesthesia. EU gold standard: legal by design — no ATMP license required.

SVF (Stromal Vascular Fraction)

Stromal vascular fraction of adipose tissue. Higher MSC concentration but requires enzymatic processing (collagenase). In Europe, restricted use; Regenerative treatment uses only on strict indications.

BMAC (Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate)

Bone marrow concentrate from an iliac crest puncture. Contains MSC + hematopoietic cells + growth factors. Optimal for bone defects, osteonecrosis, large chondral lesions.

In cell therapy is usually combined with CGF/PRP in one visit — for a synergistic regenerative effect.

When cell therapy is indicated

Severe arthrosis (stage II–III)

Knee, hip, shoulder, ankle. When PRP/CGF is no longer sufficient but endoprosthesis is still premature. MFAT + CGF is a standard protocol.

Large chondral defects

Osteochondral lesions of the knee and ankle. Combined with microfracture, AMIC or matrix-induced chondrocyte implantation.

Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

Chronic pain after spine surgery. SVF/BMAC into facet joints and the epidural space under fluoroscopic control.

Osteonecrosis

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head, humeral head, knee at early stages. BMAC into the necrosis zone — slowing or arresting head collapse.

Large rotator cuff tears

Degenerative tears with poor blood supply. Cell therapy improves biological healing conditions — before or after surgery.

Degenerative disc disease

Significant disc height loss, Modic changes. Intradiscal BMAC — experimental but promising under strict protocols.

Legal status in the EU

Regenerative treatment uses only products compliant with European regulation (Directive 1394/2007, Regulation 2017/745):

Non-ATMP products

MFAT, BMAC — minimally manipulated autologous tissues used within a single surgical intervention. No ATMP license required.

No genetic modifications

Cells are not lab-expanded, not genetically modified. This is the critical distinction between regenerative treatment and experimental "stem cell clinics" in some countries.

Clinic in Germany

Regenerative treatment headquarters is in Munich. All activity under BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte) and German medical regulation.

How the procedure works

1. Tissue harvest

For MFAT — mini-liposuction of 20–60 mL under local anesthesia (15–20 min). For BMAC — iliac crest puncture (10 min).

2. In-clinic processing

MFAT — mechanical processing in a closed system (15–20 min). BMAC — centrifugation. All done in one operating room, no transport.

3. Injection under navigation

Injection under ultrasound + + into the damage zone. Local anesthesia. 15–30 min.

4. Observation and home

1–2 hours in clinic, then home. Mild tenderness at the harvest site for 3–5 days. Moderate activity from day one, sport — in 4–6 weeks.

1Procedure in 1 visit

60–90 minDuration

3–6 moPeak effect

2–3 yrDuration of effect

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

Frequently asked questions

What are 'stem cells' in orthopedics?

Autologous mesenchymal cells from the patient's own fat or bone marrow. Embryonic cells are NOT used in regenerative treatment.

Is it legal in Europe?

Yes. MFAT is used (mechanical processing, no enzymes) — EU-compliant.

MFAT, SVF, BMAC — what's the difference?

MFAT — mechanically processed fat. SVF — concentrated cellular product from fat. BMAC — bone marrow concentrate. Chosen by indication.

Is it painful?

Local anesthesia. Harvest is a mini-liposuction or iliac crest puncture. Minimal discomfort.

When will I see the effect?

First improvement — 2–4 weeks. Peak — 3–6 months. Follow-up MRI at 6 and 12 months.