Experimental Surgery Puts Stem Cells In Heart
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Experimental Surgery Puts Stem Cells In Heart
POSTED: 5:17 pm EDT June 8, 2006
Researchers are examining an experimental surgery that could help strengthen the heart -- but it may have some risks.
The researchers are now learning that some of the stem cells can be taken from a healthy part of the body and used in a part of the body that's struggling.
The procedure involves taking stem cells from the patient's thigh muscle and injecting them into the heart.
"By giving these cells, the hope is the heart muscle will function better, will contract better," said Dr. Stephen Ellis, of the Cleveland Clinic.
Researchers won't know the procedure's effect without a long-term study of patients, but they do know about earlier risks with the surgery.
"Some of the early patients in fact have had arrhythmias or bad rapid heart rhythms that are potentially lethal," Ellis said.
Richard Howell understood the risks when he agreed to this experimental procedure.
"Whether it works or doesn't work, I've got to give it a try. I can't go on the rest of my life like this," he said.
Six weeks after his surgery, Howell returned to his daily routines, including visits to the beach.
"I couldn't have (as far as I have) six months ago to save my life," Howell said.
Researchers don't know how long Howell's heart will stay strong, but Howell said he's happy for this second chance to have a healthy retirement.
Researchers said it will take at least another two years to see if this experimental heart surgery works for people with heart failure. If it shows benefits, researchers said they will then seek Food and Drug Administration approval.
The experimental heart surgery is currently offered at the Cleveland Clinic and four other medical centers around the country. |
