Encouraging effect of autologous bone marrow aspirate concentrate in rehabilitation of children with cerebral palsy

D.M. Maric, M. Radomir, Z. Milankov, I. Stanojevic, D. Vojvodic, G. Velikic, S. Susnjevic, D.L. Maric, D. Abazovic

Clinic Orto MD-Parks Dr Dragi Hospital, Novi Sad, Serbia. dusica.maric@mf.uns.ac.rs

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• Neurology
• Pediatrics
• Stem Cells

OBJECTIVE: In this study, we used autologous bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) transplantation to treat children with cerebral palsy (CP) to improve their motor and cognitive functions.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Forty-two patients with CP received BMAC. The transplantation of stem cells via the intrathecal route includes three BMAC applications. The patients’ examination was before the injection of stem cells, with follow-ups on 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the injections. The assessments included the gross motor function classification scale, the Ashworth scale, and the Learning accomplishment profile-diagnostic scale.

RESULTS: This study included 42 patients with CP who received three BMAC intrathecal administrations. A personalized home rehabilitation program was designed and included for each patient in the study. After the treatment, we observed a reduction of spasticity in 58% of patients and significant cognitive improvement in 35% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS: The outcome of this study indicates that stem cell therapy and personalized training can improve the development of children with CP. The crucial goal of this therapeutic intervention is to substitute injured tissue with new tissues by activating the regenerative capacity of stem cells.

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