The information given below does not contain health advice. If you are considering this procedure, please consult a doctor. Click here to see the health facilities and doctors providing this service on the HealthTürkiye portal.

 

 

What is Stem Cell?

Stem cells are basic cells that have not completed the maturation process and are functionally undifferentiated. They have the ability to differentiate into various tissues of the body. When stem cells find a suitable environment, they can proliferate, differentiate into different types of cells and repair damaged tissues. These properties have led to increased research and use of stem cells as they hold promise in the treatment of many diseases.

 

Stem Cell Types

Adult Stem Cells are divided into two groups: Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (IPSCs).

Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC): These are stem cells that can be found in various tissues in adults and can be obtained in the laboratory. The most commonly used types of stem cells are those derived from adipose tissue, bone marrow and umbilical cord tissue.

Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (IPSC): It is obtained through a process in which adult cells are genetically reprogrammed and acquire embryonic stem cell characteristics in a laboratory setting. This process is quite laborious and costly.

 

Mechanisms of Action of Stem Cells

1. Cell replacement: Healthy stem cells can replace damaged or diseased stem cells.
2. Nutritional support: Healthy stem cells provide nutritional support by secreting growth factors to support the survival of surrounding cells. Mesenchymal stem cells act through this mechanism.

 

In Türkiye, stem cell applications are carried out at the clinical and research level. Established in 2006 by the Ministry of Health, the Stem Cell Advisory Board provides the necessary guidance and support in this field. Permission from this board is required for clinical trials and trial treatments on humans. However, this treatment is not yet accepted as a standard practice.

 

Where is the Applied Stem Cell Taken From?

Stem cells can be autologous (the person's own stem cells) or allogeneic (stem cells from another person). Allogeneic stem cells are usually preferred for the treatment of eye diseases, i.e. stem cells from another person are used. The preferred cell type is usually mesenchymal stem cells, which usually originate from the umbilical cord, adipose tissue or bone marrow. These cells are prepared in stem cell laboratories accredited by the Ministry of Health.

 

Stem Cell Transplant Applicable Eye Diseases

Stem cell applications are frequently used in the treatment of inherited retinal diseases, optic nerve diseases and inherited corneal diseases. Retinal diseases include Retinitis Pigmentosa (popularly known as Night Blindness or Nyctalopia), Stargardt Macular Dystrophy, especially the dry type of age-related macular degeneration (yellow spot disease) and other degenerative retinal diseases. Optic nerve diseases include optic atrophy caused by glaucoma, idiopathic, traumatic or other causes.

 

How is Stem Cell Transplantation Performed in Eye Diseases?

Stem cell applications are usually performed in four different ways:

1. Subretinal injection: It is placed under the retina, following vitrectomy surgery. This is a procedure performed inside the eye.
2. Intravitreal injection: It is performed as a needle injection directly into the eye, which does not require vitrectomy.
3. Suprachoroidal injection: It is applied under the choroidal tissue under the retina by preparing a pocket from the outside.
4. Subtenon injection: It is injected with a needle into the tenon layer outside the eye.

Intraocular applications (subretinal and intravitreal), although highly effective, carry the risk of complications. On the other hand, suprachoroidal and subtenon applications have a lower risk of complications because they are performed outside the eye.

Apart from these, intravenous or optic nerve injections are rarely used.

 

What is the effect of stem cell therapy and how long does it last?

The main goal of stem cell treatment is to stop the progression of the disease, but it is not a complete cure. Positive results such as improved vision and widening of the visual field can be seen in 60% of the patients. However, in 5-10% of patients, the treatment may have no benefit and the disease may continue to progress. The success rate is not always 100%. The better the visual acuity before surgery, the greater the visual improvement after treatment. With treatment, visual field widening and improvement in retinal function can be achieved. The earlier the treatment is performed, the more favorable the results can be. At the moment, the longest follow-up group of patients has a 5-year follow-up, so it is thought that the effect of the treatment may last on average 5 years. However, the duration of effect may be shorter and the maximum duration of effect is not yet known. The treatment may need to be repeated at regular intervals. Stem cell therapy may not be beneficial for patients with complete vision loss.

 

Does Stem Cell Therapy Have Any Effect on Other Future Treatments?

It is known that stem cell therapy may cause some conditions that may interfere with other intraocular procedures. However, suprachoroidal and subtenon applications do not affect other future treatments as they are not performed intraocularly.

 

Why choose HealthTürkiye?

Türkiye has become a sought-after destination for medical tourism, thanks to its well-established healthcare system and highly trained medical professionals. HealthTürkiye, an official representative of the Türkiye healthcare system, has been authorized by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye to assist international travelers seeking medical care in Türkiye. USHAŞ is a government-affiliated organization that makes it easier for international travelers to get the right direction and guidance for medical services. HealthTürkiye offers specialized services to guide patients from all over the world in accessing top-quality medical services in Türkiye.

HealthTürkiye provides a wide range of medical facilities and advanced technology to ensure that patients receive the best possible care. The organization collaborates with the foremost hospitals in the field to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient, considering their specific needs and preferences. The medical professionals at these hospitals are highly trained and experienced, ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and high-quality care.

Building on the achievement of HealthTürkiye, Türkiye strives to position itself as the greatest global center for healthcare services. By prioritizing inclusive and readily available healthcare services, as well as embracing cutting-edge technology and specialized knowledge, Türkiye has emerged as an appealing destination for individuals seeking medical tourism opportunities.

If you would like to benefit from Türkiye's healthcare services, HealthTürkiye will meet you the best medical care.