Memorial Hermann | Rockets Sports Medicine Institute

Stem cell therapy is a form of regenerative medicine that uses the body’s own natural healing mechanisms to repair and regenerate damaged tissue. At Memorial Hermann, while specific details on stem cell therapy are not extensively publicized, their affiliation with UT Physicians and a focus on advanced orthopedic and sports medicine suggest they may utilize treatments like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, which is a form of regenerative medicine that uses a concentration of a patient's own platelets to accelerate the healing of injured tendons, ligaments, muscles and joints.

While a definitive list of conditions treated with stem cell therapy at Memorial Hermann is not available, regenerative medicine is typically used for orthopedic and sports-related injuries. Based on the expertise of their physicians, it is likely that conditions such as osteoarthritis, tendonitis, ligament sprains, and muscle strains could be considered for treatment with regenerative therapies like PRP.

The process for receiving any treatment at Memorial Hermann would begin with a comprehensive evaluation by one of their board-certified physicians. This would include a review of your medical history, a physical examination, and diagnostic imaging such as MRI or ultrasound. If you are a candidate for regenerative medicine, the physician would discuss the procedure with you in detail, including the process of collecting and preparing the cells or platelets, and the injection procedure itself.

The benefits of regenerative medicine treatments like PRP therapy can include reduced pain and inflammation, improved function, and faster recovery from injury. Because the treatments use the patient's own blood, the risk of allergic reaction or disease transmission is eliminated. As with any injection procedure, there are small risks of infection, bleeding, or nerve damage. A thorough discussion of the risks and benefits would be part of the consultation with your physician.

The cost of stem cell therapy or other regenerative medicine treatments can vary widely depending on the specific procedure, the number of treatments required, and the complexity of the condition being treated. It is best to schedule a consultation with one of the physicians at Memorial Hermann to receive an accurate cost estimate.

Many regenerative medicine procedures, including PRP therapy, are still considered experimental by many insurance companies and may not be covered. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider directly to determine your coverage. The staff at Memorial Hermann can likely assist you with any necessary paperwork for insurance claims or pre-authorization.