Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have the ability to replace dying cells and regenerate damaged tissue. Stem cells can be obtained for many sources, including bone marrow, fat, or from donated stem cells. Minimally invasive procedures can be used to obtain stem cells from bone marrow or fat from the patient. Donated Stem cells can also be obtained from a third party, such as cord blood or placental tissues which are considered immune privileged and don’t require invasive procedures. Stem cells are injected into the injured area using ultrasound or x-ray to make sure the cells are placed exactly where they are needed.
When the body is injured, the natural healing properties of the body work to heal and repair the damage. Sometimes the body’s healing response is not enough. That's when a concentrated source of stem cells is needed. The regenerative processes begin by injecting stem cells into and around injured tissues. The “undifferentiated” stem cells are triggered by tissue damage to change into similar cell types to repair and replace the damaged cells and tissues. Stem cell therapy delivers a high concentration of cells and healing mediators to create an environment for the body to heal itself without the need for medications or steroid injections. When stem cells are injected into an area of injury, they enable the body’s natural healing processes to be dramatically accelerated. The cells can stimulate the formation of many different types of tissue including cartilage, tendon, ligaments, bone and fibrous connective tissues.
As one of the few Stem cell fellowship trained physicians in South Florida, Dr. Banionis provides expert information to patients regarding this emerging and evolving technology. Dr. Banionis has dedicated his life to helping people reduce pain and become more functional. Dr. Banionis will take the time to educate patients about their conditions and their available treatment options so they can make the best decisions about their care. Each patient will receive individualized treatment based on their specific needs to ensure the best possible outcome.
Get DirectionsIf you have a painful injury that is not healing and would like to avoid major surgery or if you are currently only masking pain through injection therapy or medication, stem cell therapy may be right for you. Because these procedures are relatively new, they’re still not covered by most insurances. Call today to discuss your treatment options and start enjoying your life again.
Each procedure usually takes about one hour. Performed safely in our medical office, these therapies can relieve and heal the cause of pain without the risks or inconvenience of surgery, general anesthesia or hospital stays. Although vigorous activities such as running should be avoided for several weeks, most people return to their jobs the next day.