Autologous bone marrow stem cell transplantation for the treatment of postoperative hand infection with a skin defect in diabetes mellitus: A case report

Abstract

Among stem cells, autologous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are ideal for transplantation by virtue of limited rejection reactions and marked proliferative ability. This study presents a novel method by which MSCs were harvested from the bone marrow of a patient who presented with severe post-traumatic infection and a non-healing skin defect in the hand, secondary to uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (DM). An autologous MSC suspension was injected into the persistent skin defect after stabilizing the blood glucose level and appropriate infection control. During the course of a regular 18-month postoperative follow-up, the patient exhibited immediate recovery with no transplant-associated complications, as well as no evidence of tumorigenicity. Thus, transplantation of autologous MSCs may play a role in the clinical application of stem cells, particularly for treatment of skin defects following surgery in cases of DM and for those caused by various other traumas.

Isolation and characterization of mesenchymal stem cells in orthopaedics and the emergence of compact bone mesenchymal stem cells as a promising surgical adjunct

“…Within the field of head and neck surgery, animal research has shown promise with the use of MSCs along with mandibular distraction osteogenesis producing improved total bone production and compact bone ratios in the “regenerate” or bone formed at the distraction site[ 48 ]. Liu et al [ 49 ] published a case report of their success using bone marrow aspirated MSCs to treat a patient with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus and a severe post-traumatic infection causing non-healing skin defect in the hand. The wound demonstrated complete healing 10-d after treatment saving the patient from wrist amputation[ 49 ].…”

“…Liu et al [ 49 ] published a case report of their success using bone marrow aspirated MSCs to treat a patient with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus and a severe post-traumatic infection causing non-healing skin defect in the hand. The wound demonstrated complete healing 10-d after treatment saving the patient from wrist amputation[ 49 ]. Using a rat-model of ischemic cardiomyopathy, Tano et al [ 50 ] showed improved cardiac function after application of a pericardial MSCs embedded within a biodegradable carrier membrane.…”