Stem cells instead of knee replacement

Posted by vanessac1357 @vanessac1357, Mar 23, 2019

Hello, I need two knee replacements, but was wondering about stem cells. Would that be a alternative?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Joint Replacements Support Group.

win sturgeon | @cobweb | Mar 23, 2019

It could be. A lot depends on how the knees present status. I would recommend taking your mri's to a legitimate Dr who is ethical. Check with Mayo Clinic and Regennex,/ I used Regenexx because it is close to where i live. Stay away from snake oil sales people. Make sure they use your stem cells.

Debbra Williams, Alumna Mentor | @debbraw | Mar 24, 2019

Hi @vanessac1357 - Welcome to Connect! I have had two knee replacements - the most recent in January 2019. I am really delighted with the results and can't say enough good things about my orthopedic surgeon at Mayo Jacksonville. I don't know very much about stem cells as an alternative to TKR but here is a video that discusses a clinical trial that Mayo is doing in that regard:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/physical-medicine-rehabilitation/videos/adipose-derived-stem-cell-treatment-for-osteoarthritic-knees/vid-20433303
I wonder if you could share a little more about your current situation: are you having pain and trouble with mobility? have you had an evaluation by an orthopedic surgeon you trust? I agree with @cobweb that the challenge is going to be finding an ethical and knowledgeable doctor who can determine whether the stem cell route is a viable option.