Arthritis is the swelling and tenderness of one or more of your joints. The main symptoms of arthritis are joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Dr. Merrick remains at the cutting edge of arthritis treatment offering stem cell injections known to reduce arthritis pain and restore function.

The injection of Adipose Derived Stem Cells (usually harvested from the fat around the belly button) has emerged as a promising treatment for many musculoskeletal problems. While still in the initial stages of development, research in animal models and humans alike have yielded promising results. Of particular interest are results seen in reduction in the pain caused by osteoarthritis of both small (wrist and finger) and large joints (hips, shoulder, and knees). Several pathways of chondrogenesis, or the rebuilding of cartilage, have been elucidated in animal models. Human studies, while lacking in statistical power, length of study and study design, have shown significant reduction in pain and increase in function.

Together with our orthopedic surgery colleagues, we have developed a process of harvesting and purification of stem cells utilizing the most advanced lipofiltration system (AdiPrep). Unlike many other providers, our team consists of skilled nurses to perform phlebotomy, board-certified orthopedic and hand surgeons, as well as a board-certified plastic surgeon for the safest, most reliable fat harvesting. In addition, our team includes a board-certified perfusionist and former director of the state of Wisconsin’s blood bank. Together we provide the highest level of specialization in hopes of achieving the best outcomes.

The process involves harvesting peri-umbilical fat using a minor liposuction technique, performed by Dr. Merrick, a board-certified plastic surgeon. The fat is then ultra-purified using a cutting edge lipofiltration system performed by our perfusionist, Mr. Scott Brown. Our skilled nursing team will then obtain a small sample of blood which will be further purified, and the platelet component is mixed with the stem cells. Finally, either Dr. Austin Crow, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, or Dr. Merrick, a fellowship trained hand surgeon, will inject the joints the patient desires treatment for.

Currently, insurance coverage for these procedures is not available. Costs vary widely, depending on the location of the providers. Some parts of our country are seeing costs more than 8000 per treatment while in foreign countries costs may be as little as 2000 per treatment. We strongly encourage patients to seek care domestically as the tight tolerances of our boards drive quality of care in this country to the highest levels. To give patients access to affordable treatments, we have worked to keep our costs well below the national averages.

In this procedure, an expendable muscle in the upper or lower extremity is transferred preserving its nerve and blood supply to restore a specific desired function.