Autologous bone marrow stem cell transplantation for treatment of lower limb ischemia

Objective To explore the feasibility and significance of autologous bone marrow stem cell transplantation for treatment of lower limb ischemia. Methods Thirty-six animal models of lower extremity arterial stenosis were established in 18 New Zealand white rabbits,and DSA images were recorded. The left limbs were control group and the right limbs were treatment group. Suspension was made from autologous bone marrow stem cells and injected into femoral artery of the affected limbs by transcatheter. The femoral artery angiography was done to determine small-angiogenesis two weeks later. Results Femoral artery angiography showed that small arteries in treatment group significantly increased,and contrast agents stained deep in capillary phase. Conclusion Autologous bone marrow stem cell transplantation could increase the formation of small vasculars,and would become effective treatment of lower limb ischemia.