By : Geraldus Sigap
Persistent knee and joint pain can significantly disrupt daily activities. In the past, many patients believed surgery was the only solution. However, medical advancements now offer a modern regenerative therapy promising optimal results without invasive procedures: stem cell and secretome therapy.
What Are Stem Cell and Secretome Therapies?
Stem cells are master cells with the unique ability to repair damaged tissues, including bone, joints, and soft tissue. Meanwhile, secretome refers to a collection of bioactive substances secreted by stem cells, such as proteins, enzymes, and growth factors—that play vital roles in healing and tissue regeneration.
Together, these therapies are used to regenerate worn cartilage (e.g., in osteoarthritis), reduce joint inflammation, accelerate recovery after injury or trauma, amd minimize long-term dependence on painkillers
Who is a Good Candidate for This Therapy?
Stem cell and secretome therapies are suitable for individuals with:
- Osteoarthritis (joint degeneration)
- Ligament or meniscus injuries
- Chronic knee pain that doesn’t improve with conservative therapy
- Reduced mobility due to tissue degeneration
These therapies are also excellent alternatives for patients who want to avoid surgery or are at high risk for surgical procedures.
What’s the Procedure Like?
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Initial Consultation & Diagnostic Tests
The doctor will assess the joint condition through physical examination and imaging tests like MRI or X-rays to evaluate tissue damage.
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Therapy Procedure
Stem cells, typically harvested from the patient’s own fat or bone marrow, are processed and then injected into the affected joint. Secretome therapy may be administered alongside or as a follow-up treatment.
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Rehabilitation
After treatment, patients undergo a light physiotherapy program to gradually restore joint function.
Advantages of Stem Cell & Secretome Therapy
- Minimally invasive (non-surgical)
- Faster recovery time
- Lower risk of complications
- Potential to delay or avoid joint replacement surgery (TKA/THR)
It is important to note that this therapy is not a one-time injection treatment. Patients typically require multiple cycles or sessions over a certain period. Tissue regeneration effects are not immediate, it may take several weeks to months to begin experiencing the full benefits, depending on the extent of damage and the individual’s response to the therapy.
At RS Abdi Waluyo, stem cell and secretome therapy is exclusively performed by orthopedic specialists who have received specialized training and certification. This ensures the quality, safety, and effectiveness of the therapy in accordance with established medical protocols. Discover a safer and more natural solution through stem cell and secretome therapy at RS Abdi Waluyo. For more information, contact our Orthopedic Specialist Team at 021-3144989 or book an appointment online today.
FAQ
- What’s the difference between stem cells and secretome?
Stem cells are master cells that can develop into various body cell types and repair damaged tissue. Secretome, on the other hand, is a collection of bioactive substances secreted by stem cells (such as proteins and growth factors) that aid tissue healing and regeneration.
- Is stem cell and secretome therapy safe?
Yes. This therapy is generally safe when performed by qualified professionals following established medical protocols. Since the stem cells are usually autologous (from the patient’s own body), the risk of rejection is very low.
- Can this therapy replace surgery?
It depends on the extent of joint damage. For mild to moderate cases, this therapy can help delay or avoid surgery. In more severe cases, surgery might still be necessary, but regenerative therapy can be a complementary treatment to enhance recovery.
- Is everyone eligible for this therapy?
Not necessarily. Patients with active infections, blood clotting disorders, or certain medical conditions require further evaluation. A thorough assessment by a specialist is essential before undergoing treatment.
- How many therapy sessions are needed?
The number of sessions depends on the patient’s condition, the severity of joint damage, and the body’s response to treatment. In many cases, 1–2 sessions combined with post-procedure physiotherapy can lead to significant improvement.
Resource :
- Pinho, A. G., Cibrão, J. R., Silva, N. A., Monteiro, S., & Salgado, A. J. (2020). Cell Secretome: Basic Insights and Therapeutic Opportunities for CNS Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland), 13(2), 31.
- Da Silva, K., Kumar, P., & Choonara, Y. E. (2025). The paradigm of stem cell secretome in tissue repair and regeneration: Present and future perspectives. Wound repair and regeneration : official publication of the Wound Healing Society [and] the European Tissue Repair Society, 33(1), e13251