Heart Beat: Follow-up: Stem cell therapy: Still more hope than help

Heart Beat

Follow-up: Stem cell therapy: Still more hope than help

A handful of studies have revealed an exciting but very preliminary possibility that stem cells from the bloodstream, thigh muscle, or even the heart itself could be used to heal damaged hearts. This field is in its infancy. The few clinical trials underway as of fall 2005 are testing not only whether stem cells work, but just how safe they are.

The lack of knowledge hasn't stopped a company called TheraVitae from offering its "VesCell" therapy at the Bangkok Heart Hospital and Chaophya Hospital, both in Thailand. For $34,000 (which doesn't include transportation, treatment of unrelated complications or additional heart problems, or medical tests such as echocardiograms or MRIs), the company will collect stem cells from your blood and inject them into your heart. Once there, these stem cells are supposed to grow into healthy heart muscle.

To continue reading this article, you must log in.

Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.

  • Research health conditions
  • Check your symptoms
  • Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
  • Find the best treatments and procedures for you
  • Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
Learn more about the many benefits and features of joining Harvard Health Online »

I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.

Sign Me Up

Already a member? Login ».

Disclaimer:

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Free Healthbeat Signup

Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!

Sign Up
Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE gift.

The Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness, is yours absolutely FREE when you sign up to receive Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle, with ways to fight inflammation and improve cognitive health, plus the latest advances in preventative medicine, diet and exercise, pain relief, blood pressure and cholesterol management, and more.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Get helpful tips and guidance for everything from fighting inflammation to finding the best diets for weight loss...from exercises to build a stronger core to advice on treating cataracts. PLUS, the latest news on medical advances and breakthroughs from Harvard Medical School experts.

BONUS! Sign up now and
get a FREE copy of the
Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus, get a FREE copy of the Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness.