Stem Cell Therapy for Retinitis/Retinopathy

Deterioration of vision due to chronic diseases is the main reason for discomfort and prompts many people to seek medical help. Stem cell therapy for retinitis pigmentosa and diabetic retinopathy can be an effective treatment in cases where conventional methods may be ineffective. It is an innovative approach that helps regenerate damaged retinal tissue and slow disease progression, offering a chance to support vision, even in complex ophthalmologic diagnoses.

Discover the benefits of this minimally invasive treatment and learn more about the cost of stem cell therapy for retinitis pigmentosa and whether it may be a viable option for managing your condition.

Introduction to Stem Cell Therapy for Retinitis and Retinopathy

Let’s review basic facts about these diseases and their key characteristics.

Retinitis Pigmentosa

Retinitis Pigmentosa is a group of inherited retinal diseases that cause progressive vision loss due to the degeneration of photoreceptor cells in the retina. Photoreceptors are the  cells responsible for detecting light and sending visual information to the brain. With time, they gradually break down, leading to tunnel vision and, in many cases, complete blindness. 

This condition typically begins in childhood or adolescence with loss of peripheral vision that worsens over time. Retinitis pigmentosa stem cell therapy  addresses the underlying causes of the disease, helping to slow its progression.

Retinopathy

Retinopathy refers to the damage to the retina caused by various underlying conditions, such as diabetes—diabetic retinopathy. It causes damage to the blood vessels in the retina, potentially leading to blurred vision, vision loss, and even permanent blindness if left untreated.

Stem cell treatment for diabetic retinopathy presents an innovative approach to the common complication of diabetes that results in progressive vision loss, offering the potential to protect and regenerate damaged retinal cells.

Stem Cell Research for Retinitis and Retinopathy

Research has opened new perspectives in the stem cell treatment for retinitis pigmentosa and stem cell treatment for diabetic retinopathy. Stem cell therapy targets retinal degeneration by releasing growth factors that promote healing and regeneration of damaged retinal cells. These growth factors help:

• Reduce inflammation;
• Support cellular repair;
• Slow the progression of vision loss.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are among the most studied for retinal therapies due to their:

• Anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce retinal inflammation that contributes to vision decline.
• Secretion of neuroprotective factors, which can safeguard existing retinal cells from further damage.

Studies have shown that MSC therapy can lead to improvements in visual acuity, particularly when applied during the early stages of the disease. 

How Stem Cell Therapy Works for Retinal Diseases

Some people may believe that stem cells cure diabetic retinopathy, but this treatment currently cannot fully restore vision. After injection into the damaged area, stem cells promote accelerated tissue regeneration, protect healthy cells from damage, and offer a potential by slowing the progression of retinal degeneration and improving vision.

Types of Stem Cells Used in Treatment

Stem cell therapy for retinitis pigmentosa primarily uses MSCs, typically sourced from umbilical cord or placenta tissues, ensuring an ethical and minimally invasive process. These cells have regenerative properties, helping repair retinal damage and reduce inflammation. Pluripotent stem cells for retinitis pigmentosa are also studied for their potential for retinal diseases, but they are not used due to safety and ethical concerns. However, mesenchymal stem cells for retinitis pigmentosa are most common due to their safety and efficacy. 

The Procedure: What to Expect

The process of stem cell treatment for retinitis pigmentosa at Swiss Medica involves several steps.

1. Collecting mesenchymal stem cells from donor tissues. 
2. Stem cells undergo a rigorous process of testing, cultivation, and activation. They are cultivated in controlled environments for optimal growth, cleaned through rigorous purification methods, and carefully activated to maximize their therapeutic potential.
3. These cells are then injected directly into the eye through retinitis pigmentosa stem cell injections or administered intravenously to reach the affected area. Once introduced, the stem cells promote tissue regeneration, reduce inflammation, and enhance blood flow to the retina, potentially slowing disease progression and improving vision.

Success Rates and Clinical Results

Retinitis pigmentosa stem cell therapy at Swiss Medica has shown potential in treating this eye condition by regenerating damaged retinal cells. The treatment aims to slow the progression of vision loss and improve vision, offering hope to those affected by this disease. Our clinic has an 80% success rate among our patients reporting improvements in retinal diseases.

Benefits of Stem Cell Therapy for Retinitis

Although there is no diabetic retinopathy or retinitis pigmentosa stem cell cure, this advanced treatment gives people a more promising approach to improving and preserving vision compared to traditional treatments.

Vision Restoration Potential

Stem cell therapies for retinitis pigmentosa show promising potential in regenerating retinal tissue and enhancing visual clarity. 

The goal of stem cell treatment for retinitis pigmentosa is to improve vision by stimulating neoangiogenesis and promoting the repair of damaged cells. Continued research into stem cell therapy for retinitis pigmentosa is vital to establish its long-term benefits and broader applications in regenerative ophthalmology, offering hope to patients with vision loss.

Improved Microcirculation

Stem cell therapy for retinitis pigmentosa and diabetic retinopathy works by enhancing microcirculation in the retina. This process involves improving blood flow, stimulating the growth of new blood vessels, and ensuring the delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen to retinal tissues. Stem cells secrete exosomes rich in growth factors, which enhance the permeability of microvessels, support angiogenesis, and protect retinal cells from cell death, ultimately leading to improved retinal health.

Slowing Down Disease Progression

Stem cell therapy provides a method to reduce disease progression in retinitis pigmentosa and diabetic retinopathy. By encouraging retinal cell regeneration, reducing inflammation, and supporting tissue repair, these treatments can help preserve vision and prevent further decline. Diabetic retinopathy stem cell therapy  is a way for treating the disease, as they can support restoration of damaged tissues in the retina. 

Risks and Considerations of Stem Cell Treatment

Immediate reactions may include mild symptoms like fever, headache, chills, or swelling at the injection site, which usually subside within 24 hours with rest or over-the-counter medication.

Choosing the Right Clinic for Stem Cell Therapy

The best clinics are not always in your city, so it’s important to consider a broader range of options. Selecting a clinic with extensive experience and expertise can ensure high-quality care. 

• Look for clinics with experienced medical staff specializing in stem cell therapy.
• Ensure the clinic adheres to safety standards and regulatory guidelines set by health authorities.
• Ask for information about the clinic’s success rates.
• Understand the total costs involved, including any additional fees for consultations or follow-up care. Ensure pricing is clear and documented.
• Ensure the clinic provides adequate follow-up care to monitor progress and address any side effects.

Swiss Medica Clinic is located in Serbia and focuses on advanced stem cell treatments. With personalized treatment plans and an all-inclusive experience, it’s a great option to consider.

Important Questions to Ask Before Treatment

When can I expect the result?

Stem cell treatment for diabetic retinopathy targets retinal damage caused by diabetes, offering a potential solution to regenerate retinal tissue. In some cases, patients notice noticeable improvements within the first few days of stem cell treatment. However, it is important to understand that the injected stem cells will take time to reach the problem areas and promote the healing process.

How many stem cells do you administer?

The dosage of stem cells, including pluripotent stem cells for retinitis pigmentosa, is tailored to each patient based on their condition and weight, with typically 1–1.5 million cells per kilogram for adults. The exact amount is carefully calculated to avoid any risks. 

Certifications and Experience: What to Look for

We are directly obliged to comply with all legal and regulatory requirements in Serbia. The offered procedures are performed exclusively by licensed and experienced medical professionals with extensive experience in stem cell therapy, ensuring full compliance with strict ethical and medical standards.

Why Choose Swiss Medica for Stem Cell Treatment for Retinitis/Retinopathy?

• Swiss Medica specializes in stem cell therapy for retinal diseases like retinitis pigmentosa and diabetic retinopathy.
• Our clinic uses adult mesenchymal stem cells that are ethically sourced from umbilical cord and placental tissue. To prioritize patient safety and uphold ethical standards, we avoid using embryonic stem cells, which pose a higher risk of complications.
• Our clinic provides a virtual consultation to discuss the unique needs and treatment objectives, as well as the cost of stem cell therapy for retinitis pigmentosa and diabetic retinopathy.
• Individual approach to each patient. One doctor provides treatment and gives full attention to 3–4 patients. 
• The comfort of our patients is a priority for us. The clinic is hotel-like and full of a cozy atmosphere.

Contact us for a free consultation to find the best treatment option.

The Success Rate of Stem Cell Therapy for Retinitis/Retinopathy at Swiss Medica

Swiss Medica, we have achieved an 80% success rate. Many patients undergoing diabetic retinopathy stem cell therapy experience significant improvements in their vision and overall quality of life. These improvements often include:

• Preservation or enhancement of vision
• Slower progression of retinal degeneration
• Increased ability to perform daily activities
• Reduced inflammation and improved retinal health
• Better overall well-being and quality of life

Success Stories and Testimonials

Sadhana, a patient from Singapore

Improvements:

• Ability to see finer print more clearly: Sadhana mentions that she could now read finer print, which was difficult for her before the treatment.
• Improved readability of small fonts: While Sadhana still struggles with very small fonts, she is now able to read details, something she couldn’t do prior to the treatment.

“I started to notice that I could read smaller print, something I couldn’t do before, like seeing my name or ID number on a pass..”

Cost of Stem Cell Therapy for Retinitis and Retinopathy

The cost of stem cell therapy for retinitis pigmentosa or diabetic retinopathy stem cell therapy varies depending on the severity of the condition and the overall treatment plan. Сosts typically range from €7,000 to €31,000. Doctors will create a customized treatment plan after a comprehensive consultation and evaluation of your health.

Frequently Asked Questions about Retinitis and Retinopathy Stem Cell Cure

Alex Hitch Author

Dr. Lana Reviewer

MD, Pediatrician, Regenerative Medicine Specialist