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MFAT CELL THERAPY (STEM CELLS)

MFAT cell therapy in Raleigh, NC

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WHAT IS MFAT CELL THERAPY ("STEM CELLS")?

Dr. Matthew Kanaan at Carolina Nonsurgical Orthopedics performs Microfragmented Adipose (MFAT) cell injections for large joints (knee, hip, shoulder) and large muscle injuries and tendon tears.

The procedure involves a minimally-invasive mini liposuction where we will concentrate the fat tissue and break it down manually. This process requires years of expertise, and Dr. Kanaan is highly experienced with optimizing his Cell Therapy techniques.

 

NOTE: We do not, and are not allowed to add any enzymes or additives to manipulate the fat tissue beyond what the FDA permits currently. This is called "minimal manipulation", and it is the only way that we can legally offer these injections. 

While most patients are familiar with the term "Stem Cell". We have moved to using the term "Cell Therapy" as the FDA does not allow the culturing of tissue in pure stem cells. Any clinic that does so in the United States is at risk of being shut down and prosecuted by the government. 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

  • High success rates and long-lasting relief (Studies support relief for up to 3-4 years, but we've had patients experience relief for much longer)

  • Well tolerated, less invasive procedure than Bone Marrow Concentrate, with less down time

  • Safety profile is very high 

  • Promotes a cellular cushion for joints 

  • Number of stem cells in adipose tissue is a very high concentration

  • MFAT contains more mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) than BMAC, and MSCs are a key component of regenerative medicine. MSCs in BMAC decrease significantly after age 50, while stem cells in adipose tissue remain numerous with age.

  • Scientifically-supported treatment option for pain relief

Embryonic Stem Cells
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NOT ALL STEM CELLS ARE SAFE OR EFFECTIVE  

Cell therapy (Stem Cells) has been around for close to a decade in orthopedics, but there are many clinics that promise false results, and use cells that are not allowed by the FDA.  

Here are the 3 most important questions to ask when considering Cell Therapy: 

 

WHAT KIND OF CELL IS BEING USED?  

  • Cells that are NOT legal or approved in the US include:  Amniotic / Umbilical Cord Cells, Exosomes, Wharton's Jelly.  

  • Adipose (Fat) & Bone Marrow have the most evidence in orthopedics, and are "permitted" at this time by the FDA, but only if the cells are minimally manipulated (no enzymes or chemicals used to break down or culture the cells).
     

WHAT KIND OF PHYSICIAN IS INJECTING THE CELLS? 

  • Stem Cells and Cell therapy is not risk free. The tissue we inject is very thick and could cause an embolism if injected into a blood vessel.  

  • These type of injections should only be injected under image guidance by an experienced physician. 
     

WHAT KIND OF PROMISES IS THE CLINIC MAKING ABOUT STEM CELLS?

  • Fat and Bone Marrow both have good evidence in advanced arthritis. They both seem to reduce pain, and possibly create a cellular cushion due to the viscosity of the injections. 

  • It is VERY important to note that we do not have large studies confirming that these cells regrow cartilage that is lost, or that we can reverse any disease process. 

  • At Carolina Nonsurgical Orthopedics our goal is to use cell therapy to delay surgery if possible, and to reduce pain. We will never promise that patients will avoid surgery forever.  

READ THE LATEST STUDIES ON MFAT CELL THERAPY ("STEM CELLS")>

READ MORE ABOUT STEM CELLS 

MFAT Stem Cells for Knee Pain: A Promising Treatment Option Mesenchymal stem cells derived from MFAT (Microfragmented Adipose Tissue) are increasingly being explored as a treatment for knee pain, particularly in individuals suffering from osteoarthritis or cartilage damage. This therapy uses stem cells sourced from a patient’s own fat tissue, offering a regenerative approach to managing knee pain and promoting healing. MFAT is obtained through a minimally invasive process that involves liposuction to extract fat from areas like the abdomen or thighs. The fat is then processed to create microfragmented adipose tissue, which contains not only mesenchymal stem cells but also growth factors, cytokines, and extracellular matrix components that support tissue repair and regeneration. These components help promote the healing of damaged cartilage, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the production of new cells. In knee osteoarthritis, the cartilage in the joint deteriorates over time, leading to pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Traditional treatments such as pain medications, physical therapy, and joint replacement surgery may offer relief, but they often fail to address the underlying tissue damage. MFAT stem cell therapy offers a more regenerative alternative. When injected into the knee joint, MFAT stem cells can reduce inflammation, encourage the growth of new cartilage, and repair damaged tissues. Research into MFAT stem cells for knee treatment has shown promising results. Studies have reported improved pain management, enhanced function, and increased cartilage thickness in patients who undergo this treatment. Unlike other stem cell therapies, MFAT is particularly advantageous because it uses the patient’s own tissue, reducing the risk of immune rejection or complications. While MFAT stem cell therapy is not yet a standard treatment, ongoing studies continue to demonstrate its potential for addressing knee pain and cartilage degeneration in patients with knee osteoarthritis or injury. NOTE: Per the FDA we do not go beyond minimal manipulation of fat tissue. This is illegal in the United States.

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WHY CAROLINA
NONSURGICAL ORTHOPEDICS

  • All Providers are BOARD CERTIFIED and Specially Trained in Nonsurgical Orthopedics 

  • Over 50,000+ and Counting Procedures Performed

  • Procedures Performed with Ultrasound Guidance for Accuracy and Safety 

  • Local and Independent Practice That is NOT a Franchise 

  • Discounts for Service Members, Teachers, and Public Servants 

  • Serving Raleigh Since 2013

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