Can Stem Cell Therapy Help Patients With a TBI?

Regenerative Medicine, also known as stem cell therapy, offers technology and treatment protocols that have advanced rapidly in the last few years. Not only is it a viable treatment option for orthopedic conditions, but it has shown potential positive outcomes in symptom management for neurodegenerative conditions, which includes traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).

Recent findings have revealed that progenitor/stem cells are present in select regions of the human brain throughout a person’s entire life span. These cells make the brain capable of generating new glia and neurons. While these findings referenced stem cells that were already present in the brain, mesenchymal stem cells have been shown to repair intracranial aneurysms and inhibit inflammation.

What is a Stem Cell?                                                                                                                    

Also known as a progenitor cell, a stem cell is a unique biological component that can become a variety of different cells based on your body’s needs. These cells are naturally present within your body. However, they are found in lower concentrations as you age, which can inhibit your body’s ability to heal as effectively as when you were younger.

The most common types of stem cells used in these treatments are known as adult stem cells or mesenchymal stem cells. These cells can be derived from bone marrow aspirate, adipose (fat), or donated umbilical cord (Wharton’s Jelly) tissues.

Patients who use their own (autologous tissue) will have a mini procedure to obtain the cells which are then processed in an on-site lab. Patients may be recommended to prefer to use a donor source which is the umbilical cord-derived stem cells. These cells are from Wharton’s Jelly, which is found in the vessels of the umbilical cord.

Can Stem Cells Regenerate Damaged Brain Tissue?

Stem cell therapy continues to be researched and is not an FDA-approved treatment since still is considered to be an experimental option. However, it does have the potential to mitigate the symptoms of traumatic brain injuries and provide other benefits. Some studies have also shown patient improvements in the areas of balance, sensation, social cognition, communication, and motor performance. Many have also found benefits with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.

Patients are exploring regenerative medicine as an alternative option in their health journeys. Explore what stem cell therapy may offer to help improve symptoms and manage your condition today.

This post was written by a medical professional at Stemedix Inc. At Stemedix we provide access to Regenerative Medicine for TBI, also known as stem cells for traumatic brain injury. Regenerative medicine has the natural potential to help improve symptoms sometimes lost from the progression of many conditions.