Regenerative Cell and Tissue Therapies at UPMC

Regenerative medicine is showing new promise in the pursuit to repair damaged or destroyed tissue. By harnessing the healing power of one’s own body, many people with conditions once considered beyond repair now have reason for hope.

University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and UPMC researchers and clinicians across disciplines have succeeded in bringing regenerative cell therapies to patients.

With new regenerative cell and tissue therapies always in the works, we currently offer the following innovative procedures.

Fat Grafting to the Foot for Fat Pad Atrophy and Chronic Plantar Fasciitis

Feet have special fat pads in the forefoot and heel that absorb the impact and pressure from any physical activity. Fat pad atrophy occurs when these pads break down or wear out.

Plantar fasciitis occurs when you strain the plantar fascia ligament along the bottom of the foot that supports and protects the arch. Doctors label it chronic when it lasts more than six months despite attempts to improve it.

People with severe pain from fat pad atrophy or chronic plantar fasciitis may find relief from an innovative treatment called fat grafting.

Developed by and offered exclusively at UPMC, the technique restores function and reduces pain by grafting fat from other parts of the body.

Learn more about foot pad grafting or make an appointment.

Extracellular Matrix Surgery for Severe Muscle Damage

For some people with very severe muscle injuries that haven’t responded to conventional treatments, UPMC plastic surgeons offer extracellular matrix (ECM) surgery. ECM is the body’s natural scaffold for cells.

UPMC and University of Pittsburgh researchers have found a way in which the human body regrows damaged tissue by using the ECM.

This novel treatment encourages damaged tissue to regenerate, where it would otherwise remain damaged or heal with scar tissue. It may also improve function.

Learn more about ECM surgery or make an appointment.