Bone Marrow Aspirate derived stem cells for chronic wounds of the lower extremity

Abstract

The use of stem cells in chronic and problematic wounds is of particular interest as chronic wounds, particularly those of a diabetic nature, are a physical, social and financial drain to both the patient and the medical system. Expediting wound closure and reducing risk of amputation then becomes important. Stem cells in chronic wounds may assist with cell migration, proliferation and the repair process. In this article, we have retrospectively reviewed patients that were treated with autologous bone marrow aspirate (BMA) in an attempt to determine any potential value in expediting wound closure. A comprehensive review of the literature on the treatment of chronic wounds through the use of autologous mesenchymal stem cells was performed and have examined as a novel clinical technique in the treatment of chronic wound.