Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons

Stem Cell Injection

Stem cell injection is a medical procedure that involves the administration of stem cells directly into a patient’s body to promote repair of damaged tissue, alleviate pain, and enhance the body’s natural healing processes. The procedure begins with the careful selection of the type of stem cells to be used, which can be autologous (derived from the patient’s own body) or allogeneic (sourced from a donor). Autologous stem cells are often harvested from the patient’s bone marrow or adipose (fat) tissue. Once harvested, the stem cells are processed and concentrated through a series of steps to ensure they are viable and potent for therapeutic use. This preparation is crucial to maximize the effectiveness of the injection and minimize any possible adverse reactions.

The actual injection process is typically performed under sterile conditions, either in a specialized clinic or hospital setting, often guided by imaging technologies such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy to ensure precise delivery to the targeted area. Depending on the condition being treated, stem cells may be injected into joints, muscles, or specific organs. Local anesthesia might be administered to enhance patient comfort during the procedure. Post-injection, patients are usually monitored for a short period for any immediate reactions and advised on follow-up care, which might include rest, physical therapy, or lifestyle modifications to support recovery. While some patients may experience immediate relief, the regenerative effects of stem cell injections can take weeks or months to manifest fully, necessitating follow-up evaluations to assess efficacy and progress.