The aspiration of adipose tissue to obtain adipose-derived stem cells is gaining in popularity in the orthopedic community.
The aspiration of adipose tissue to obtain adipose-derived stem cells is gaining in popularity in the orthopedic community. The hope is that with aspiration of fat and then tissue processing, there will be a concentrated solution consisting of mesenchymal stem cells. There are two different products obtained when adipose is used for injection.
The first is microfragmented adipose and the other is Stromal Vascular Fraction (SVF). The mechanical isolation technique involves mechanical disruption of the adipose tissue and then serial filtration and centrifugation. The potential benefit of the microfragmented adipose tissue is that they may have more prolonged secretion of growth factor compared to SVF which may have more anti-inflammatory effects.
The purpose of this review is to look at what SVF is and its potential uses. The cells that make up SVF include “adipose-derived stem cells, pericytes, and smooth muscle cells”. Further studies have also identified growth factors and cytokines in the SVF.
The combination of these cells are thought to provide anti-inflammatory affects. SVF is obtained from lipoaspiration of adipose and then treated with enzymatic solution. Typically, collagenase is used as the enzymatic solution, which causes the separation of stromal cells from the adipose tissue.
SVF fluid Collagenase separates the lipoaspirate into a floating mature adipocytes fraction and the lower aqueous fraction. This can be centrifuged to even further isolate the lower aqueous fraction. The table below shows the cells isolated in the aqueous fraction.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to what is the stromal vascular fraction?, 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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