Cell Therapy

Abstract

The development of advanced wound healing technology has triggered the use of cells to overcome limitations of the conventional methods. Cell therapy has a potential to improve wound healing conditions without major surgical procedures and donor-site morbidity. Cell therapy can be applied for both acute and chronic wounds. In the treatment of acute wounds, cell therapy can increase wound healing rate, reduce scar contracture, and minimize donor-site morbidity. In the treatment of chronic wounds, by transplanting cells with an excellent profile of wound healing capacity to the wound bed, attempts are made to convert the wound bed into the environment where maximum wound healing can be achieved. At present, fibroblasts, keratinocytes, adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction cells, and platelet concentrates are actively used in the clinical setting. In addition, mesenchymal stem cells have been drawing intense attention in the field of wound healing and may hold great promise in treating chronic wounds. Recently, a new method of grafting micronized adipose tissue containing various cells has been developed and demonstrated positive effects on wound healing. The aim of this chapter is to provide information on cell-based treatment options in clinical setting for wound healing. In particular, healing of chronic diabetic wounds will be focused on.