The world of stem cell therapy is on a roll, regenerative medicine provides hope to patients who previously had few curative options. Stem cell therapy can have real advantages – reducing pain, allowing you to move around and heal quicker – but you have to take some time to weigh the risks. We are dedicated to patient safety at Universal Medical Group (UMG) and take every possible measure to make sure all stem cell procedures are as safe as possible. This article will cover what are the most common risks with stem cell therapy, what makes the treatment safe, and how UMG’s experience mitigates those risks.
1. Infection Risk
The only real risk of stem cell treatment is infection. Since stem cell therapy is commonly administered in joints, tissues or wounds, it’s always possible for bacteria or other germs to get out into the body by way of injections. This could leave you infected if your stem cells become contaminated during the processing or there is a sterilisation failure.
There are strict sterilisation and quality control controls at every level at UMG. We make sure stem cells are prepared in a sterile facility where contamination is at minimal. Also, we have doctors in our clinics who are experienced in injection techniques and thus do not risk bringing any infectious agents into the procedure.
2. Immune Reaction and Rejection
While stem cell therapy is well tolerated, there is a low incidence of immune response or rejection (especially when it involves cells that are not in the patient’s own body). If the cells are uninvited, the immune system might identify them as pathogens and mount an immune response. This can result in swell, ache, or even systemic reaction, in extreme cases.
UMG utilises almost exclusively autologous stem cells – that is, stem cells that are derived from the patient’s own body, usually from bone marrow or fat. This method also makes it much less likely to provoke immune attack or rejection because the body doesn’t conceive of its own cells as foreign. We don’t risk immune attack, so using autologous cells makes it a safer and more natural treatment.
3. Unintended Cell Proliferation and Tumor Development.
It’s rare, but some stem cell therapy has actually resulted in unwanted cells expanding, producing tumours or other cell masses. This danger applies particularly to embryonic stem cells because they are a cell type that is pluripotent: that is, capable of developing any cell type and sometimes rapidly proliferating.
Ours at UMG are only adult stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells, which can differentiate only so far. As stem cells from the mesenchyme are differentiated into bone, cartilage and muscle, they’re much less toxic to treatment. It’s a decision that prevents unintended cell expansion, and it makes UMG’s stem cell treatment less risky for patients.
4. Injection Site Complications
Stem cell therapy can be prone to local complications at the injection site, just as any injection procedure is. In some patients, there will be mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising in the site after the procedure. On rare occasions, severe complications (for example, nerve injury or hepatomegaly) might follow if it isn’t done right.
Every stem cell treatment at UMG is performed by certified experts who care about comfort and safety. We are guided by ultrasound or fluoroscopy so that the injection target is accurately pinpointed so there is less risk of complications. Our team also gives patients extensive aftercare instructions to ensure minor side effects are well managed and the patient heals best.
5. Short-Term Evaluations of Effectiveness and Safety Lack of Long-Term Data on Effectiveness and Safety
Stem cell therapy is safe, and has been very effective, but it’s still a very young practice. We have very little data over the long term regarding its impact, at least for some applications such as anti-aging treatments. This is why there are patients with very different outcomes, and this treatment can be accompanied by other interventions for full benefit.
At UMG, we’re on top of all stem cell research and innovations. Our staff receives regular training and education to provide treatment that is the latest in science. We stay abreast of findings so we can provide you with safe, effective therapy at optimal results.
What UMG Do’s to Make Stem Cell Therapy Safe?
Universal Medical Group is dedicated to patient safety and we know informed patients make better health choices. Patients who select UMG have the confidence that their stem cell therapy is being delivered under strict quality control. Because we do everything — from the initial consult to the post-treatment follow-ups — we care about you and your health. We have the best sterilization and technique and equipment in our clinic, so you will get the right treatment every time.
You Are Ready To Start With Stem Cell Therapy?
To speak with a professional from Universal Medical Group if you’re considering stem cell therapy, and you want to know more about the pros and cons. We have years of experience and safety first in mind so we can serve you from the beginning to the end of treatment. Book an appointment with us today and get started on the journey to regenerative health easily.
Contact Information:
Email: info@UMGcare.com
Phone: 1-800-330-1015
