Abstract
Backgrounds and Aims : Many patients suffering from severe ischemic limb disease inevitably experience amputation, despite the use of intensive therapies such as the administration of prostaglandins, a sympathectomy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Preclinical studies have established that the implantation of bone marrow-mononuclear cells in ischemic limbs increases collateral vessel formation. We used this new therapy in patients with thromboangiitis obliterance. Patients and Methods : The implantation of autologous bone marrow-mononuclear cells was performed in five patients with ischemic limbs caused by peripheral arterial disease. Bone marrow-mononuclear cells were collected from approximately 500ml of bone marrow blood, and then injected into the muscles in the ischemic region. Results : Although the extent of the improvement was not consistent among the five cases, all of the patients experienced some improvement in their symptoms. No side effects were observed in the five patients. Conclusion : The autologous implantation of bone marrow-mononuclear cells appears to be a safe and effective treatment for therapeutic angiogenesis, based on the natural ability of marrow cells to supply endothelial progenitor cells and to secrete various angiogenic factors and cytokines.
