ReoCell’s bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy is designed to reduce pain and inflammation, improve knee joint mobility, and support cartilage tissue repair.
Book a consultationKnee osteoarthritis (gonarthrosis) is a chronic degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of articular cartilage and changes in the surrounding joint tissues. Osteoarthritis commonly affects the knees, hips, and other weight-bearing joints.
The prevalence of osteoarthritis increases significantly with age:
Regardless of age, as the disease progresses, pathological changes gradually affect all joint structures, including the subchondral bone, synovial membrane, ligaments, and joint capsule.
Based on its underlying cause, osteoarthritis is classified as either primary (idiopathic), which develops without a single clearly identifiable cause due to a combination of age-related, genetic, and biomechanical factors, or secondary, which results from a specific medical condition or joint injury.
Current guidelines from the European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases (ESCEO), the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI), and the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) recommend a stepwise approach to osteoarthritis management, ranging from nonpharmacological interventions to surgery when necessary.
The main treatment options for knee osteoarthritis include:
Most conservative treatments primarily aim to reduce pain and inflammation and improve joint function. In contrast, regenerative approaches, including cell therapy, target the underlying repair processes within the joint.
These approaches help reduce chronic inflammation, support the viability of cartilage cells, and create a more favorable environment for tissue repair.
The ReoCell program uses cultured mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which are injected directly into the affected joint. The primary goal of treatment is to reduce joint pain and stiffness, improve mobility, and help patients return to their normal daily activities.
Cell therapy is the only approach to osteoarthritis treatment that aims not only to relieve pain but also to influence biological processes within joint tissues. Mesenchymal stem cells can modulate inflammatory responses and influence tissue repair mechanisms.
MSCs interact with joint cells and release biologically active molecules, including growth factors, cytokines, and other signaling molecules. They may influence inflammation, chondrocyte activity, and tissue repair processes.
The main mechanisms of action of MSCs include:
In simple terms, MSCs may help create a more favorable environment for the joint’s own cells to function.
Reduction in pain and inflammation
Reduced joint stiffness
Improved mobility
Improved joint function
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Request a ConsultationCell Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis: The ReoCell Program
The doctor reviews the patient's medical history and records, performs a physical examination and any necessary diagnostic assessments, establishes a preliminary diagnosis, and develops a plan for further testing.
The patient undergoes the prescribed laboratory tests and imaging studies (X-rays, MRI, and blood tests). The time required depends on the extent of the evaluation.
Based on the examination results, the medical team assesses whether cell therapy is appropriate and works with the patient to develop an individualized treatment plan.
Autologous therapy uses the patient's own cells and requires tissue collection and cell expansion in culture to obtain the necessary number of cells. Allogeneic therapy uses cells from a healthy donor that have been prepared for administration.
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis using an intra-articular injection directly into the affected joint.
In most cases, patients can return home the same day and follow their doctor's recommendations regarding physical activity. Initial changes may develop gradually, and treatment outcomes are typically assessed 3–6 months after the procedure.
Cell therapy using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is being actively investigated in clinical trials as a potential treatment for osteoarthritis. To date, the most consistent findings relate to pain reduction, improved joint function, and better quality of life.
A systematic review by Carneiro et al. (2023) found that these outcomes were consistently reported across most of the analyzed clinical studies, regardless of the source of MSCs. Carneiro et al., 2023
Clinical studies have reported substantial and sustained pain reduction following intra-articular MSC administration. In a long-term follow-up study by Orozco / Soler et al., pain intensity measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) decreased by 66% at 12 months, with a reduction of approximately 75% reported at the four-year follow-up. These clinical improvements were accompanied by changes in MRI findings. Long-term study by Orozco / Soler et al.
One of the most widely used outcome measures in osteoarthritis research is the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), which assesses pain, stiffness, and physical function.
In a randomized clinical trial by Lamo-Espinosa et al. (2018), patients receiving a high dose of MSCs demonstrated a 39% improvement in WOMAC scores and a 45% reduction in VAS pain scores after six months. For patients, these improvements may translate into easier walking, reduced stiffness, and better knee function during everyday activities. Randomized trial by Lamo-Espinosa et al., 2018
According to the systematic review by Carneiro et al. (2023), initial improvements were observed as early as six weeks to three months after treatment in some studies. Clinically meaningful outcomes were more commonly assessed at approximately six months, while stabilization or further improvement was evaluated at 12 months or later. Review of clinical studies by Carneiro et al., 2023
Some studies reported sustained benefits over extended periods, ranging from 30 months to seven years. Such findings were described, among others, in a study by Park et al. (2017). Park et al., 2017
In addition to symptom relief, some studies have investigated structural changes in cartilage tissue. The study by Lamo-Espinosa et al. (2018) reported:
a 40–51% reduction in cartilage defects;
a 14–22% increase in cartilage volume;
an increase in mean cartilage thickness from 0.4 mm to 1.6 mm;
histological evidence of hyaline-like cartilage formation in certain cases.
However, these structural changes cannot be considered a guaranteed outcome for every patient. They may depend on the stage of osteoarthritis, the baseline condition of the cartilage, and other treatment-related factors. Lamo-Espinosa et al., 2018
Research indicates that responses to cell therapy may vary between patients. Better clinical outcomes have been more frequently observed in younger individuals, while patients with earlier stages of osteoarthritis may have greater potential for structural cartilage changes.
According to Dufrane (2017), younger patients demonstrated better clinical outcomes, whereas Soler et al. (2016) reported a more favorable response among patients with early-stage disease. Dufrane, 2017 | Soler et al., 2016
Clinical studies have identified transient local pain and swelling as the most common adverse events following intra-articular MSC administration. These symptoms typically lasted between one and six days.
In the study by Al-Najar et al. (2017), no serious systemic complications or neoplastic changes were observed. Al-Najar et al., 2017
Overall, current clinical research suggests that the most consistently reported outcomes of cell therapy for osteoarthritis are pain reduction, improved joint function, and enhanced quality of life. Treatment outcomes are best evaluated over a period of 6–12 months.
Structural cartilage repair may also occur, but it depends on individual patient characteristics and cannot be guaranteed in every case.
Pain during movement
Joint stiffness
Reduced range of motion
Intermittent joint swelling and inflammation
Grinding and clicking sensations in the joint
Joint locking accompanied by sudden pain and restricted knee movement
Nighttime pain (in advanced stages)
Delaying treatment for knee osteoarthritis may contribute to further deterioration of joint function. Pain may intensify, mobility may decrease, swelling and joint deformity may develop, and everyday physical activities may become increasingly difficult.
In the early stages, treatment primarily focuses on managing symptoms, preserving joint mobility, and slowing disease progression. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor promptly, assess the condition of the knee joint, and determine the most appropriate treatment strategy.
In international clinical practice, the radiographic severity of osteoarthritis is assessed using the Kellgren–Lawrence classification:
Grade 0 – No radiographic signs of osteoarthritis.
Grade 1 – Doubtful radiographic changes, with possible early joint space narrowing.
Grade 2 – Mild joint space narrowing and isolated osteophytes (bony outgrowths).
Grade 3 – Moderate joint space narrowing, prominent osteophytes, and subchondral sclerosis (increased bone density beneath the cartilage).
Grade 4 – Severe joint space narrowing, marked deformity of the articular surfaces, and large osteophytes.
When necessary, the extent of cartilage damage may also be assessed during arthroscopy using the Outerbridge classification, ranging from cartilage softening (Grade I) to full-thickness cartilage defects with exposure of the subchondral bone (Grade IV).
The stage of osteoarthritis and the severity of cartilage damage are important factors in determining which treatment options for knee osteoarthritis may be appropriate for an individual patient.
The diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis is based on the patient's symptoms, clinical examination, and, when necessary, imaging studies. The doctor assesses pain, range of motion, the presence of crepitus (joint clicking or grinding), joint deformity, and swelling.
The primary imaging method used to assess joint space narrowing, osteophytes, and other bone changes.
Performed when clinically indicated, particularly when a more detailed assessment of the cartilage, menisci, ligaments, and other soft tissues is needed.
May be used to detect joint effusion, synovitis, and changes in the periarticular tissues.
Blood tests or synovial fluid analysis are not used to confirm osteoarthritis itself but are primarily performed to rule out other joint diseases when clinically indicated.
Preserve joint mobility and stay comfortable in your everyday life.
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I want to leave a review of REOCELL clinic. I am very pleased with the visit and the result.
Sincere thanks to Dr. Dmytro Andriiovych and Tetiana Vasylivna — attentive, professional, and they explain everything in detail. I also thank the anesthesiologist Oleksandr Anatoliiovych — everything went calmly and comfortably.
The clinic is very cozy, with a pleasant atmosphere. The nurses are attentive and caring and support you at every stage. The administrators are always friendly and well organized. The doctors are always in touch, which gives confidence and peace of mind.
I have only positive impressions. I really liked it and recommend it to everyone.
I had an exosome procedure for hair loss at the clinic — I saw the result after just 2 weeks. Thank you!
Incredible impressions of the clinic's specialists! Especially endocrinologist Natalia Borysivna and gynecologist Lina Aliievna! An extremely high level of professionalism! Very caring and gentle! They approach their work with enthusiasm ❤️🙏. They know how to give the patient their full attention! I highly recommend this clinic!…
A very high-quality, modern clinic: a thorough examination, and all the necessary tests are done on site. Tetiana Karpenko is an attentive, professional doctor. Dmytro Andriiovych is simply the best.
Thank you! I came to the clinic with knee osteoarthritis. It got much better: the pain went away, and according to MRI the cartilage structure improved!!! For 2 years now I have been living without knee pain and without intra-articular injections. I especially want to thank Oksana Spivakova for managing my case, monitoring and communicating with the doctors :) I recommend this therapy
A great team of professionals who treat the cause, not the symptom.
Great service. True professionals. Pleasant communication. Friendly staff. Definitely recommend 🤗…
Polite and professional staff
Thank you for the wonderful therapy, its effectiveness, the kind attitude and the atmosphere. I had fibroblast therapy to improve my facial skin. I noticed that my skin turgor improved, the pigment spots disappeared, and my skin really became more lively and attractive. Thank you :)
I want to thank the whole ReoCell clinic team for their wonderful work! I chose the autologous fibroblast procedure for natural skin renewal and have no regrets at all.
I appreciate the comprehensive approach: everything was explained to me in detail, a thorough diagnosis was carried out, and I was supported throughout the entire treatment. The material collection and the subsequent cell injection were comfortable.
The result exceeded my expectations! My skin became much fresher and firmer, and fine wrinkles decreased. The best part is the feeling of renewal from within, with nothing artificial. I am very glad I chose this particular clinic and this technology. Definitely recommend!
I am very grateful to ReoCell clinic! I used fibroblast cell therapy for skin rejuvenation; I am 55 years old. My own fibroblasts were used, and I later also banked them in the ReoCell bank. The result exceeded my expectations. My skin became smooth, fresh and firm. I recommend it!
At ReoCell clinic I had a rejuvenation procedure with a product based on fibroblast-conditioned medium to improve my skin. I was bothered by constant inflammatory breakouts, redness and dryness. I saw the result after 2 weeks — the red spots disappeared, and my skin looked "fresh" and more hydrated. After a course of 3 procedures over 3 months, my skin became firmer, the tone evened out, the dullness disappeared, and I looked healthier and more radiant. Half a year has passed since the start of treatment, and the effect still lasts; acquaintances and friends say I look rested and younger. I see the proof of these words in the mirror too, which makes me happy: in the morning light make-up is enough, and my look and mood are wonderful. Thank you to dermatologist Maryna Malanushenko for the excellent result!
Every patient is unique, which is why we develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your individual needs and health characteristics. Our goal is to achieve the best possible therapeutic outcomes for each patient.
Our doctors and researchers are recognized experts in their fields. They continuously enhance their knowledge and skills, incorporating the latest treatment techniques into clinical practice.
From the production of cell-based therapeutic products to their clinical application. Our state-of-the-art biotechnology laboratory and cryobank ensure the highest standards of quality and safety.
A full range of permits and licenses to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Cell therapy works best when combined with healthy lifestyle habits. Here’s what can help protect your knees:
Maintain a healthy weight – every extra kilogram increases the load on your joints.
Stay physically active – walking, swimming, stationary cycling, and exercises that strengthen the thigh muscles help maintain knee stability.
Avoid excessive strain – alternate physical activity with rest and avoid sudden, forceful movements that place excessive stress on the joint.
Strengthen your muscles – strong quadriceps help reduce stress on the cartilage.
Choose comfortable footwear and appropriate knee braces – they can help improve joint alignment and load distribution.
Follow your doctor’s recommendations – take prescribed medications and attend scheduled follow-up appointments.
The method is considered relatively safe. No serious complications were reported in the clinical studies cited, with the most common adverse reactions being temporary pain and swelling at the injection site. Adult mesenchymal stem cells do not raise the same ethical concerns as embryonic stem cells and are not generally prone to spontaneous oncogenic transformation. The procedure is performed by qualified physicians under medical supervision, following a thorough pre-treatment assessment and evaluation of potential contraindications.
ReoCell’s cell-based products are manufactured in its own biotechnology laboratory, with quality control at every stage of production. Their clinical use is guided by methodological recommendations from the Ministry of Health of Ukraine and Bogomolets National Medical University regarding cultured autologous and allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs).
The products have a standardized dose of 40–50 million cells and a standardized formulation. Treatment is prescribed only after a medical consultation and thorough patient assessment.
Apart from initial pain at the injection site, patients generally experience little to no discomfort. Some patients may develop a temporary fever, headache, or nausea. These symptoms usually resolve within 24 hours and generally do not last longer than three days. To minimize the risk of adverse reactions, it is important to follow your doctor’s post-procedure recommendations.
Yes. Allogeneic cell therapy uses cells from a healthy donor and may be suitable for patients whose own cells are not available in sufficient quantity or quality. Donor-derived cells can be readily available when needed, whereas autologous cells require time for collection and expansion to achieve the required dose.
Studies suggest that allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may be an effective alternative for treating chronic knee osteoarthritis. The choice between autologous and allogeneic cell therapy is made jointly by the physician and the patient.
Find out which treatment will be effective in your case
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SELF-MEDICATION CAN BE HARMFUL TO YOUR HEALTH!