Prof Paul Lee - MSK Regeneration Blog on MSK Doctors
What’s the evidence that cell therapy works?
There is different evidence out there for cell therapy. It depends on what we are looking at. In some sectors of cell therapy, there are over 20 years of experience and many randomised control trials to show that it is superior compared to traditional treatments, for example, micro-fracture. There are also studies that suggest it makes no difference.
This variety is to be expected in a field that has evolved so much over time. Inevitably there will be techniques that do not work, and situations where a technique was applied without understanding if it was right for that particular patient.
So to maximise your chances of success, it’s important to do your research, understand the studies relevant to you, and if in doubt, seek professional advice. Simply typing ‘cell therapy’ into a search engine will come up with a lot of unorganised – and mostly irrelevant – facts.
Where should I go for treatment?
Surgical cell therapy requires sub-specialist expertise. It is not something that can be done with a simple injection. In order to correct the environment, your surgeon needs to do the groundwork and plan the cells’ recovery. All in all, extensive investigation is needed prior to treatment. Due to the complex nature, you will need a team to help you before, during, and after the surgery. I would recommend spending a little time to research into each surgeon you find, as well as their team, to know their background before embarking on your cell therapy journey.
The good news is that there are now more cell therapy specialists in the UK than ever – so there are plenty of options to choose from.
The Regeneration Man
MBBch, MFSEM (UK), MSc (Sports Med), PhD (Med Engine), FEBOT, FRCS (Tr & Orth)
Consultant Sports and Arthroplasty Surgeon
MSK and Regeneration Medicine Doctor
Visiting Professor of Sports Medicine
I.C.R.S. teaching centre of excellence
Regional advisor Royal College of Surgeon Ed
Passionate about biology, engineering, computers and medicine.
Sports Muscle Injuries and Actovegin: Basics, Concepts and Future of Actovegin by Paul Y. F. Lee (2016-02-22)
