Frequently asked questions

What are Stem Cells?

Stem cells are primitive cells that can develop into different tissue types and are essential to our normal development, maintenance, and healing processes. There are many kinds of stem cells used in research and clinical settings. Our practice uses a person's own (autologous) mesenchymal stem cells to help heal and recover after injuries. These cells promote healing and reduce inflammation and do not necessarily "grow" into new tissue. We do not use embryonic stem cells. At SSCI, we prefer to NOT use other human tissue sources (allogenic), such as birth tissues, as a source of stem cells since their characterization and compatibility can be inconsistent.

How do Stem Cells Work?

There are several mechanisms by which stem cells can help with healing and recovery. They begin tissue repair, diminish pain, stop chronic inflammatory processes, and begin tissue healing and recovery. Some stem cells may engraft into the injured tissue and help with regeneration. Stem cells also secrete numerous biomolecules, which diminish inflammation and pain. Finally, stem cells function as "master orchestrators" of the healing process by secreting biological signals which instruct nearby tissue to activate dormant stem cells.

Are Stem Cells a "Miracle Cure" for everything?

No. In orthopedic medicine, mesenchymal stem cell and PRP treatments can be an excellent option to help reduce symptoms and enhance natural healing. These treatments tend to be more effective in the early stages of arthritis. Severe joint damage and deformity cannot be changed using stem cells. Stem cells can significantly lessen joint degeneration. Many patients note significant symptomatic improvement despite severe joint pathology. It is essential to undergo a comprehensive evaluation before considering treatment. Some conditions do not respond to these treatments.

What are the Common Sources of Autologous (your own) Stem Cells?

The most common sources of autologous mesenchymal stem cells are bone marrow and adipose (fat) tissues. At SSCI, bone marrow aspiration is our preferred primary source of stem cells. We have developed a method of bone marrow aspiration that is nearly painless. At SSCI, the procedure is performed using local anesthesia and with mild oral analgesia, making the process usually well tolerated. Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas) is also available for improved pain control.

What is the Difference between PRP and Stem Cells?

Platelet Rich Plasma is prepared directly from blood and does not involve adipose or bone marrow collection. Instead, a centrifuge concentrates platelets and mononuclear cells while removing red cells. Platelets release many of the same healing biomolecules as stem cells, but platelets expire after releasing their contents, while stem cells live on for months, releasing growth factors over time. Stem cell treatment usually has more extended durability of effect (often lasting two years) than PRP (often lasting six months). Nevertheless, PRP alone can be very effective, especially for less severe injuries and degeneration. PRP is simple and less costly to prepare. At SSCI, we use PRP mainly as primary treatment, and it also can be an adjunct during stem cell treatment.

Does Sierra Stem Cell Institute Culture or Grow (expand) Stem Cells?

No. Our treatments are done in one day, one patient at a time. Our process concentrates stem cells, then immediately places them into injured areas using injection techniques. The FDA forbids culturing and expanding stem cells.

Does SSCI provide IV stem cell injections or treat conditions such as COPD, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s Disease, or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)?

 No. Our practice is limited to Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal conditions. We adhere to specific ethical guidelines regarding these types of treatments. Our physicians only treat conditions for which they already have specialty training, experience, and Board Certification. We only use treatments for which the scientific literature shows reasonable safety and effectiveness in human patients and uses the same stem cell preparations available in our practice. A treatment plan is suggested after a thorough MD evaluation, including a detailed history, physical exam, and imaging review. (Occasionally, our physician may suggest more conventional therapies.)

What makes SSCI stand out in Regenerative Medicine?

We are committed to excellence. All treatments and tissue preparations are carried out in a sterile operating room or biological safety cabinets. A sterile operating area for stem cell aspiration is essential. The use of a biological cabinet is critical in PRP preparation.