Is Knee Replacement Inevitable?
For millions of Americans with Osteoarthritis (OA), the doctor’s orders are often the same: steroid shots until you can’t walk, then total knee replacement (TKR).
But TKR is major surgery. It involves sawing off bone, implanting metal, and 6-12 months of painful rehab. And for 20% of patients, chronic pain persists.
The Regenerative Alternative
In Thailand, advanced Stem Cell protocols offer a bridge. By injecting high-potency Umbilical Cord MSCs (100M+) directly into the joint, we can reduce inflammation and stimulate cartilage repair.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Knee Replacement (USA) | Stem Cell Therapy (Thailand) |
|---|---|---|
| Invasiveness | Major Surgery (Hospital) | Needle Injection (Clinic) |
| Recovery | 6-12 Months | 2-3 Days |
| Cost | $30,000 - $50,000 (plus deductible) | $8,000 - $12,000 (All-inclusive) |
| Risks | Infection, Blood Clots, Implant Failure | Minimal (Injection site soreness) |
The “Gap” in US Medicine
Why isn’t this available in the US? The FDA currently classifies expanded stem cells as a “drug,” requiring years of clinical trials. Thailand operates under international standards that allow for safe, expanded cell usage now.