Name of the Procedure:

Xcellistem, 1 mg
Technical Term: Autologous Mesenchymal Stem Cell Injection

Summary

Xcellistem is a medical procedure where 1 mg of mesenchymal stem cells, harvested from the patient's own body, are injected to help repair, regenerate, and restore damaged tissues. It's commonly used to treat various degenerative conditions.

Purpose

Xcellistem targets conditions that involve tissue damage and degeneration, such as osteoarthritis, tendon injuries, and cartilage damage. The goal is to reduce pain, improve function, and promote healing and tissue regeneration.

Indications

• Chronic joint pain (e.g., knee or hip arthritis)
• Tendon injuries (e.g., Achilles tendonitis, rotator cuff injuries)
• Cartilage damage
• Poor healing following injury or surgery

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments in medications, such as blood thinners, may be needed.
• Pre-procedure imaging (MRI or X-rays) to assess the affected area.
• Basic blood tests to ensure the patient is fit for the procedure.

Procedure Description

1. Harvesting: Stem cells are usually collected from the patient's bone marrow or adipose (fat) tissue.
2. Isolation: The cells are processed to isolate the mesenchymal stem cells.
3. Injection: The stem cells are injected directly into the affected area using a fine needle, often guided by imaging techniques like ultrasound or fluoroscopy.
4. Monitoring: Post-injection, the site is observed for any immediate reactions.

Duration

The entire procedure typically takes 1-3 hours, including preparation and recovery time.

Setting

Xcellistem is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon or specialist
• Nurse
• Radiologist or imaging technician
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation is needed)

Risks and Complications

• Common: Injection site pain, swelling, and bruising.
• Rare: Infection, bleeding, and allergic reactions.
• Management: Regular monitoring and medications to manage pain or infections.

Benefits

• Reduced pain and inflammation.
• Improved joint function and mobility.
• Potential for tissue regeneration and faster recovery.
• Benefits may be realized within weeks to a few months post-procedure.

Recovery

• Post-procedure rest for 24-48 hours.
• Gradual return to normal activities within a few days to weeks.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor progress.
• Physical therapy may be recommended to enhance recovery.

Alternatives

• Corticosteroid injections: Provide temporary pain relief but do not promote regeneration.
• Physical therapy: Non-invasive but may take longer for significant improvement.
• Surgical options: Joint replacement or repair, which are more invasive and have longer recovery times.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient may feel discomfort at the injection site. Post-procedure, mild to moderate pain and swelling can occur, usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs. Most patients can return to daily activities shortly after, with careful adherence to post-procedure instructions to maximize recovery and outcomes.