Stem cells as a new treatment for peripheral artery disease: Hype or hope? The point of view of a vascular surgeon

Abstract

Because many of patients with peripheral arterial disease are not eligible for direct or conventional revascularization procedures, because stem cell therapy is being investigated as to its possible role in the treatment of limb ischemia, there is a need to evaluate this treatment and his true application. On the basis of experimental data, preliminary clinical studies have established the safety and feasibility of stem cells implantation in case of critical limb ischemia. Forthcoming large studies, especially randomized placebo controlled double blind studies, related to the optimal cell type, dosage, administration route, will consolidate this evidence and establish mid and long term effectiveness.

Autologous Stem Cell Therapy in Critical Limb Ischemia: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

“…The amputation rate is 10%–40%, and the mortality rate is up to 20% in patients with CLI within 6 months [ 11 ]. The angiogenesis is the optimal treatment for CLI, and autologous stem cell therapy is an emerging alternative treatment [ 12 , 13 ].…”