Stem cell hope for bone fractures

February 18, 2008

UK scientists hope to mend shattered bones and damaged cartilage using a patient’s own stem cells.
They are developing a “bioactive scaffold” to protect the stem cells and encourage them to grow into bone or cartilage when placed in the body.

The Edinburgh University team hope the technique, which uses stem cells from blood and bone marrow, will be tested in patients within two years. Surgeons said it could help repair trauma injuries too severe to heal. (BBC NEWS)