Use of bone marrow stem cells to treat critical ischemic limbs

Abstract

We report on the case of a 49-year-old male patient who presented with embolic occlusion of all left leg arteries. After multiple and unsuccessful revascularization attempts and lumbar sympathectomy, he was referred to us with an indication of amputation at the upper third of the leg. We suggested implanting autogenous bone marrow stem cells in his calf. Excellent immediate results were obtained with suppression of rest pain, hypothermia and paleness, elevation of ankle/brachial index, peak systolic velocities and scintigraphic and angiographic indices. There was also a considerable enhancement of healing at the amputation site of the fourth and fifth toes.

Stem cells; regenerative therapy