Stem cells in orthopedics

Indian J Med Sci. 2006 Apr; 60(4) : 162-9.
Stem cells in orthopedics: current concepts and possible future applications.
Bagaria V, Patil N, Sapre V, Chadda A, Singrakia M.
Department of Orthopedics, CIIMS HOSPITAL, 88/2, Bajaj Nagar, Nagpur – 440 010, India. [email protected]

Abstract
Stem cells are the cells that have the ability to divide for indefinite periods in culture and to give rise to specialized cells. Sources of these cells include embryo, umbilical cord and certain sites in adults such as the central nervous system [CNS] and bone marrow. Its use hold promise of wide spread applications particularly in areas of spinal cord injury, difficult non-unions, critical bone defects, spinal fusions, augmentation of ligament reconstructions, cartilage repair and degenerative disc disorders. This review article contains current information derived from Medline searches on the use in various orthopedic sub-specialties. Some issues remain at the forefront of the controversy involving stem cell research – legislation, ethics and public opinion, cost and concentration methods. As is true with any new technology, the enthusiasm for this technology that has potential to influence virtually every orthopedic case management, must be balanced by subjecting it to stringent clinical and basic research investigations.
PMID: 16679634 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]