Clinical efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of patients with avascular necrosis of the femoral head

Introduction. Avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH) is a common problem that occurs in 10-18 % of patients with a trauma profile. Extensive research has recently explored the potential of treating ANFH using mesenchymal stem cells and has shown results convincing of the effectiveness and safety of the method.The purpose of the study. To study the clinical efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of patients with avascular necrosis of the femoral head.Materials and methods. The data is reviewed in PubMed, CochraneLibrary, ScienceDirect, eLibrary. A clinical case of treatment of a patient with avascular necrosis of the femoral head using mesenchymal stem cells is described.Results. MSCs are best suited for early therapy of ANFH, as a stage of conservative treatment of patients in order to improve the results of complex treatment and to obtain the possibility of stabilization and regression of necrotic changes in bone tissue. If patients have advanced stages, the use of MSCs can reduce pain and increase limb functionality, improve quality of life, and delay the need for total hip replacement.Conclusion. Extensive research over the past decade has explored the potential of the MSC and shown promising results. Despite the existing controversies, it seems that the overall results of using MSC for the treatment of avascular necrosis of the femoral head are positive not only in terms of efficacy, but also safety. However, for reliable interpretation of the results, they need to be determined over time.