Advertisements in newspapers and magazines publicize stem cell injections with claims that are often times not backed up with medical evidence.
Advertisements in newspapers and magazines publicize stem cell injections with claims that are often times not backed up with medical evidence. Nomenclature can be confusing, but stem cell injections range from adipose derived stem cells, bone marrow derived stem cells and amniotic fluid stem cells. The goal of a stem cell injection is to inject a cell with differentiation potential and cause the release of growth factor and immune regulatory cells.
For the purpose of this review, we will look at the evidence behind amniotic fluid stem cell injections. Background Amniotic stem cell injections are obtained from human placentas. Amniotic fluid is found within the amniotic cavity and helps protect the developing fetus.
Studies have shown that amniotic fluid in vivo does contain live stem cells. One advantage of embryonic stem cells verse adult stem cells is that they are pluripotent and can differentiate all adult cell types. Another benefit of amniotic fluid injections is that they have been found to contain multiple different growth factors.
The process of harvesting amniotic stem cells for an injection involves removing the amion and adding digestive agents (trypsin and collagenase) to help free up the amniotic mesenchymal stem cells. After the cells have been isolated, they are typically frozen and then thawed out prior to the procedure. The collection of the amniotic cells occurs after delivery.
The amniotic cell injections hold an advantage over the bone marrow or adipose derived because they do not require an invasive cell harvest. One concern in the use of amniotic fluid injections is in preventing the spread of infection. There is a difference in the infection risk between fresh and preserved amniotic membrane product.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to amniotic fluid injections, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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