Potential of mesenchymal stem cell applications in plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Several human studies show positive signals, while research methods and sample sizes continue to develop.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

: Novel therapy with mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow, adipose tissue, or other sources has raised high hopes for treatment of a variety of diseases. For plastic and reconstructive surgery, first pilot studies and clinical trials using stem cells for treatment of chronic wounds, radiation injury, or soft tissue augmentation have furnished encouraging results compared with the limitations of standard therapy, for example autologous fat grafting. Further research must be conducted to reveal the complex physiological interactions between activated stem cells and the host environment. Long-term effects and safety aspects of these novel treatment options also require randomized controlled studies. For future clinical applications, guidelines and standardized procedures for stem cell isolation and preparation, and techniques for application must be established.

Evidence level

Several human studies show positive signals, while research methods and sample sizes continue to develop.

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