Combined administration of platelet rich plasma and autologous bone marrow aspirate concentrate for spinal cord injury: a descriptive case series

Neural Regen Res, 2021 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/1673-5374.290903 · Published: August 24, 2020

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine

Simple Explanation

This study explores the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) combined with bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) as a treatment for spinal cord injury (SCI). The combined treatment aims to leverage the growth factors in PRP and the stem cells in BMAC to promote healing. Seven patients with SCI were treated with both PRP and BMAC. The treatment was administered through both intravenous and intrathecal routes. The study monitored the patients for any adverse effects and measured their functional outcomes using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). The study found the combined treatment to be relatively safe, with only one patient experiencing mild, temporary side effects. Two patients showed improvement in their ODI scores, indicating a potential reduction in disability.

Study Duration

Up to 1 year

Participants

7 patients with spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Level 4; Retrospective case series

Key Findings

1
Intrathecal/intravenous co-administration of PRP and BMAC resulted in no significant complications.
2
Two patients with incomplete SCI at C6 and C7 demonstrated a decrease of 28–40% following salvage therapy, representing an improvement from severe to minimal disability.
3
The combination of PRP and BMAC appears to be safe and has the potential additive benefit of stem cells from bone marrow combined with the more ideal milieu of PRP.

Research Summary

This retrospective case series evaluated the safety and effectiveness of combined autologous PRP and BMAC administration via intrathecal and intravenous routes in seven SCI patients. The study found that the combined treatment was generally safe, with only mild and rare post-procedure complications. Two patients with incomplete SCI showed improvements in their Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores, indicating a shift from severe to minimal disability. The authors conclude that while larger clinical studies are needed, the combined treatment of PRP and BMAC shows promise as a potential therapy for SCI, particularly for patients with limited meaningful treatment options.

Practical Implications

Potential New Treatment Modality

The combined PRP and BMAC treatment could offer a new therapeutic avenue for SCI patients, especially those with limited treatment options.

Improved Functional Outcomes

The observed improvements in ODI scores suggest a potential for enhanced functional abilities and reduced disability in SCI patients.

Safe and Feasible Approach

The study indicates that the combined treatment is relatively safe and feasible, supporting further research and clinical trials.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size (n=7)
2
Loss of regular patient follow-up post-treatment, limiting long-term assessment
3
Lack of a control group

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