Scientists with DaVinci Biosciences and Hospital Luis Vernaza have developed a way to effectively treat spinal cord injuries (SCI). Researchers found that injecting a patient’s bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMCs) into the spinal column benefited both acute and chronic SCIs. When a spinal cord is injured, there is hemorrhaging which leads to swelling and restricted blood flow. The injected BMCs promote blood vessel growth, which aids in healing.
After treatment, patients were followed for two years and monitored through MRI imaging. 52 patients received the injections with no resultant infections, tumors, or increase in pain. Functional improvements were noted, such as improved bladder control, which increased their overall quality of life.
This treatment isn’t available to the public yet, but researchers hope to offer it after more trials. You can find more details in Cell Transplantation Vol. 17 No. 12.