Stem cell therapy

Understanding the procedure

Stem cell therapy represents an advanced frontier in regenerative orthopedics and interventional pain management. Using specialized, multipotent cells derived from your body's own adipose (fat) tissue, this treatment is designed to address tissue degeneration, structural damage, and chronic inflammation at the cellular level. Adipose tissue is one of the most concentrated and robust sources of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and regenerative pericytes. By introducing this concentrated matrix of specialized cells directly into the target anatomy, the therapy coordinates tissue-rebuilding processes and signals local cells to initiate structural recovery.

How it works

Adipose-derived stem cells deliver a concentrated matrix of signaling factors directly to the site of structural compromise. They release potent growth factors and exosomes that prompt dormant local cells to regenerate tissue and synthesize structural collagen; they reverse the cycle of catabolic inflammation, shifting the microenvironment from active breakdown to repair; and they stimulate new capillary networks, restoring oxygen and nutrients to chronically degenerated tissues.

Where we use it: major joints, to slow cartilage degradation and treat osteoarthritis of the knee, hip, or shoulder; tendons and ligaments, for chronic tendinopathies and partial tears such as rotator cuff or Achilles where standard treatments fail; and spinal discs, through precise intradiscal injection for chronic discogenic pain. The primary objective is disease modification: altering the trajectory of joint and tissue degeneration to preserve structure, resolve mechanical pain, and prevent invasive surgery.

Before your procedure

Fasting, sedation, and your ride home

• If you are receiving sedation, nothing to eat or drink for six hours before your appointment. Essential morning medications may be taken with a small sip of water only.
• We offer light or deep sedation. The level is decided by the physician and anesthesia team based on the procedure and clinical need.
• Any patient receiving sedation must be accompanied by a responsible adult driver to take them home.

Where to go

Procedures are performed at one of three facilities: our clinic at 1925 Hospital Place, ACOM at 6449 Central Park Blvd, or Hendrick South at 6399 Directors Pkwy, Suite 100. Your appointment paperwork tells you which one. Please arrive early for registration and pre-procedure preparation.

Procedure day

• Microaspiration: a minimally invasive technique to collect adipose tissue, usually from the abdomen or flank.
• The visit typically takes 60 to 90 minutes for collection, processing, and delivery, depending on complexity.

Afterward: what to expect

• The regeneration timeline. Cellular regeneration operates on a biological timeline. Initial inflammatory modulation may provide symptom relief within the first few weeks, while profound structural and cellular rebuilding continues to develop over 3 to 6 months.
• Soreness. Mild, localized mechanical soreness at both the extraction and injection sites is expected as the active healing cascade is initiated.
• Anti-inflammatories. It is imperative to abstain from NSAIDs during the defined post-procedure window to avoid interrupting the required cellular signaling process.

Call us right away if you notice

This guide is the same information as the printed handout from Abilene Pain. It is general information and does not replace the instructions your care team gives you at your visit. Your care team: Nicolas Pugh, MD · Adrianne Anders, NP · Ted Chaka, PA.