How SVF Therapy Works

The Stromal-Vascular Fraction (SVF) therapy is an approach of using a mixture of cells from the fat tissue of the patient called adipose tissue. Delivery of purified SVF cells through a minimally invasive procedure causes regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. In this article, we’ll provide a detailed answer to the question ‘what is Stromal-Vascular Fraction?’ and explore the benefits of SVF therapy.

What Makes SVF So Beneficial

What is Stromal-Vascular Fraction’s main advantage in regenerative medicine? The advantages are numerous. Let’s dive into some of the key benefits.

Easy access and minimal pain

SVF is derived from fat tissue, which is readily available and can be accessed through a minor liposuction procedure with minimal pain and no downtime required.

No rejection risk

Since SVF is derived from a patient’s own fat, there is no risk of rejection, making it a safe and effective treatment option.

SVF contains a high concentration of stem cells

After some procedures, which we’ll describe later on, we get SVF rich in mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), as well as other types of cells: such monocytes / M2 macrophages, endothelial cells, T-regulatory cells, and smooth muscle cells. This combination enhances the viability and integration of the transplanted fat and promotes tissue repair and rejuvenation. 

Improved fat graft survival

The improved survival rate of SVF-enriched fat grafts means patients can achieve the desired results with fewer treatment sessions. 

When Do We Use Them

We often include Stromal-Vascular Fraction therapy in programs for treating:

• Diabetes: SVF may promote the regeneration of pancreatic cells and enhance insulin sensitivity.
• Arthritis: SVF may help repair joint tissues and decrease pain, which reduces the need in NSAIDs usage and improves the quality of life.
• Retinal diseases: SVF may help prevent retinal degeneration, and strengthen retinal function, which contributes to vision improvement.
• Lyme disease: SVF cell therapy may modulate the immune system and lower inflammation associated with the disease.
• Other conditions: SVF is being explored for its potential in managing other conditions, such as pulmonary, autoimmune, and cardiovascular diseases.

Get a free online consultation

Schedule an online consultation with one of our medical advisors to explore how SVF therapy could benefit you. They will thoroughly assess your situation and recommend the best treatment plan and next steps tailored to your needs.

Dr. Aleksandra Fetyukhina, MD

Medical Advisor, Swiss Medica doctor

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SVF Collection and Preparation

Cell collection:

• Source: Fat tissue is usually collected from the patient’s front abdominal area. We only use cells from the patient’s own body in SVF therapies.
• Volume: Depending on the subcutaneous fat availability, we usually collect about 50 milliliters of fat.
• Method:  The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.

The doctor uses a long aspiration needle to make a small incision around the belly button or the flanks of the abdomen and gently removes the patient’s fat tissue. 

At the patient’s request, we may keep a part of SVF cells and use them during their next visit, without the need for a repeated cell collection procedure.

Cell preparation:

Purification
The obtained solution, known as lipoaspirate, is processed using emulsification and centrifugation procedures. This way, we can destroy the extracellular matrix and isolate SVF cells from free fat and other unwanted components.

No need for cell cultivation
Usually, cell therapies require laboratory cultivation in sterile conditions to receive a cell product. In contrast, SVF cells can be used immediately after purification and within 2-3 hours of lipoaspiration without the need for cultivation. This decreases the risk of contamination and potential changes to the cells’ properties, and helps keep native characteristics and functionality.

How Do We Deliver SVF

There are two primary methods for delivering the stromal-vascular fraction into the patient’s body.

1. Intravenously: This way, the doctor provides Stromal-Vascular Fraction therapy by slowly injecting the cells through a vein using IV line with a needle. This minimally invasive procedure ensures quick and better absorption as SVF bypasses the digestive system. 

2. Locally: This minimally invasive procedure implies that SVF cells are applied directly to a specific area of the body. Possible methods include retrobulbar (behind the eyeball), para-articular (near the joint) and intra-articular (into a joint) injections.

Usually, the procedure lasts approximately 4 hours, from the beginning of the procedure to the moment when the patient gets his cell procedure.

The processing of SVF cells takes up to 90 minutes. You can be sure that the medical staff will monitor your safety during the procedure.

Dosages

For IV infusions in adults, the typical dose ranges from 150 to 200 million cells. The exact dosage depends on the patient’s condition, the symptoms, and other individual factors, such as age and weight.

Program Duration

The minimum length of an SVF stem cell therapy program is generally 5 days. During this time, the patient undergoes examination before the procedure and observation after the treatment to exclude complications. We also carry out additional procedures to increase the effectiveness of cell treatment (IMR, physiotherapy, procedures with exosomes).

Contraindications

Usually, cell-based therapies are generally well-tolerated and cause no serious side effects. The contraindications for using the stromal-vascular fraction (SVF) are similar to those for mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and include:

• Active oncology
• Acute infections
• Prior negative experiences with such treatment
• Personal characteristics, such as age, body weight
• Mental disorders.

Also, some conditions may carry risks during the collection process of the SVF:

• Hypocoagulation: reduced blood clotting ability
• The use of anticoagulant therapy: medications that prevent blood clotting.

The doctors carefully assess each case to ensure the safety and efficacy for each patient.

Treatment results

The treatment results depend on the severity and duration of the disease, individual characteristics of the patient. For most conditions, the patient will gain the maximum benefits of the therapy within 1 to 3 months after treatment. These positive effects usually last for up to 6 months following treatment. 

Typically, the effects of the SVF stem cell therapy are no longer noticeable one year after treatment. But in rare cases, we see a positive effect up to several years.

Contact us

To discuss how SVF stem cell therapy could specifically benefit you and to understand the expected outcomes for your condition, schedule a no-obligation consultation with our medical advisors. They’ll provide personalized insights and answer any questions you may have.

Dr. Aleksandra Fetyukhina, MD

Medical Advisor, Swiss Medica doctor

Your Name Please fill out this field Phone Please fill out this field E-mail Please fill out this field

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