Overview
Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine
Regenerative medicine represents one of the most advanced frontiers of contemporary orthopedics. In this field, Prof. Fernando Colao has developed a dedicated clinical and scientific pathway for the use of autologous mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of degenerative osteo-articular pathologies and musculoskeletal tissue injuries.
Mesenchymal stem cells, harvested from the patient's own adipose tissue or bone marrow, possess the capacity to activate complex biological processes of tissue repair. Through sophisticated mechanisms of cellular communication — mediated also by exosomes and growth factors — these cells contribute to the regeneration of damaged cartilage, bone tissue and connective structures.
The approach promoted by Prof. Colao is rooted in the most modern concept of regenerative conservative medicine: not limiting oneself exclusively to symptom control or prosthetic joint replacement, but intervening early to promote the biological recovery of tissues and preserve the patient's joint function.
Rai 3 · Documentary · 3 March 2026
Towards immortality — Stem cells
Watch the documentary broadcast on Rai 3 to gain a deeper understanding of stem cell research and its clinical potential in orthopedics.
Therapeutic areas
Clinical indications
In recent years, cellular therapies have opened concrete perspectives in the treatment of:
- osteoarthritis in initial and moderate stages
- focal cartilage lesions
- degenerative tendinopathies
- osteochondral pathologies
- chronic inflammatory processes of the musculoskeletal system
In selected cases, these procedures may contribute to slowing the progression of degenerative pathology and, when clinically appropriate, postpone or reduce the need for invasive surgical interventions.
Prof. Colao has also brought the subject of regenerative medicine to the attention of the general public through numerous scientific contributions and appearances on national television programmes, promoting accurate information on the importance of early diagnosis, prevention and therapeutic innovation in orthopedics.
Techniques
Therapeutic pathway
Each treatment is evaluated through a personalised clinical pathway, based on criteria of medical appropriateness, specialist indication and functional assessment of the patient.
- autologous harvesting of stem cells from adipose tissue or bone marrow
- cell processing and concentration using dedicated protocols
- ultrasound-guided infiltration into the affected articular or tendinous district
- clinical and functional monitoring during post-procedural follow-up
The approach integrates surgical expertise, regenerative medicine and advanced conservative strategies, with the goal of improving the patient's quality of life and promoting the maintenance of joint mobility over time.
The information on this page is intended exclusively for educational and scientific purposes and does not replace specialist medical assessment, clinical diagnosis or personalised therapeutic indication.
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