Stem Cell Therapy Uses Patient’s Own Cells

Stem Cell Therapy Supports Regeneration by Using the Body’s Own Cellular Repair System

Stem cell therapy is a regenerative treatment that uses a patient’s own cells to support orthopedic healing, reduce inflammation, and restore tissue function in areas affected by degeneration or chronic injury. Stem cells are capable of differentiating into new tissue, signaling cellular repair, and influencing the body’s regeneration pathways. Stem cell therapy is used when tissue injury, chronic degeneration, or age-related decline limits the body’s normal recovery processes. By delivering concentrated populations of viable stem cells directly into joints, tendons and ligaments, treatment may support collagen remodeling, reduce inflammatory signaling, and encourage more complete tissue repair.

Resources:

In regenerative medicine, adult stem cells are the most promising cell types for cell-based therapies.

Read more from the National Library of Medicine.

Dr. Payson Flattery began offering stem cell–based orthopedic care more than fifteen years ago and has participated in the evolution of U.S. delivery standards, laboratory oversight, and treatment access. Recent regulatory changes now allow patients greater flexibility in how their cells are collected, stored, and expanded for future orthopedic or systemic use.

Adipose as a Preferred Stem Cell Source

Stem cell therapy at our clinic uses adipose tissue as the primary source. Adipose-derived cells replicate on a slower cycle—approximately every seven to ten years—compared to bone marrow cells, which replicate every 90-120 days. Biologically, this slower replication means adipose-derived cells tend to behave younger, are smaller, and more responsive, which may support tissue healing more effectively. This also makes adipose-derived stem cells a viable option even for patients over age 60.

How Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Are Collected and Prepared

Stem cell therapy begins with lipoaspiration, a minimally invasive procedure performed in clinic to remove a small sample of adipose tissue.
They are then minimally manipulated in our laboratory to be processed into MFAT (Microfragmented Adipose Tissue) and can then be combined with PRP and injected under US guidance.
In appropriate cases sample can be sent to a certified, FDA-regulated laboratory, where:
1. Stem cells are isolated from adipose tissue
2. Cells may be expanded to increase total cell volume when clinically indicated
3. The expanded cells are prepared for injection.
The expansion process typically requires approximately six weeks before treatment can be performed.

Conditions Stem Cell Therapy May Support

Prolotherapy is particularly effective for musculoskeletal conditions involving ligament laxity, tendon injury, or joint degeneration. Common conditions treated by prolotherapy

Degenerative Joint Disease

Degenerative joint disease involves gradual breakdown of cartilage and supporting tissue, leading to stiffness, inflammation, and reduced mobility. Regenerative therapies may help support the cellular environment involved in joint function and comfort.

Ligament or Tendon Degeneration

Overuse, aging, or previous injury can weaken ligaments and tendons, reducing stability and joint support. Regenerative approaches may help influence local healing activity in areas where tissue repair has slowed.

Post-Operative Recovery Support

After orthopedic surgery, the body undergoes a long period of tissue remodeling and functional restoration. Biologic therapies may complement rehabilitation strategies by supporting targeted cellular repair.

Complex Musculoskeletal Conditions

Chronic or multi-site pain often reflects a combination of mechanical stress, tissue degeneration, and impaired healing. Regenerative treatment plans may help address difficult patterns of soft-tissue dysfunction.

Neurologic or Systemic Inflammatory Conditions (via IV Therapy)

Certain systemic or neurologic conditions involve widespread inflammation or impaired cellular signaling. IV delivery of regenerative biologics is designed to enter circulation and support broader physiologic repair pathways.

Top Stem Cell FAQs

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What makes stem cells useful for orthopedic healing?

Stem cells can differentiate into new tissue and signal local repair activity, influencing inflammation, collagen remodeling, and functional recovery in damaged or degenerated structures.

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What dosing is typical for orthopedic procedures?

Orthopedic injections often require 10–40 million cells.

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How does the banking process work?

Cells are harvested from adipose tissue and sent to a cryopreservation lab. They remain stored until the patient requests expansion for treatment. Storage is billed annually.

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How long does expansion take?

Once expansion is ordered, laboratory processing generally requires around six weeks before cells are ready for treatment delivery.

Additional Stem Cell FAQs

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Is adipose collection difficult?

Lipoaspiration is minimally invasive and performed in the clinic. Most patients tolerate the procedure well.

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Can stem cells replace surgery?

Stem cell therapy may help in cases where surgery is being considered, but treatment selection depends on the severity of structural damage.

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Can stem cell therapy be combined with other regenerative treatments?

Yes. Treatment plans may involve orthopedic injections, PRP, or rehabilitation support depending on clinical goals.

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Are adipose-derived cells appropriate for older adults?

Yes—because adipose-derived cells replicate slowly and behave biologically younger, they are an appropriate option even for patients over 60.

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Are these treatments performed domestically?

Yes. Patients no longer need to leave the U.S. for access to stem cell therapy.

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Work directly with Bend’s Regenerative Medicine physician specialist

Dr. Payson Flattery evaluates each case personally and recommends treatment plans aligned with orthopedic need, functional goals, and clinical safety.

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464 NE Norton Ave.