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Adipose-Derived Stem Cell (SVF) Therapy

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What is adipose-derived stem cell therapy?

Adipose-derived stem cell therapy uses a patient’s own fat tissue as a source of biologic material to support healing in certain orthopedic conditions. Adipose tissue contains a variety of cells, including mesenchymal stem-like cells and other supportive components that can influence inflammation and tissue signaling.

At Nevada Stem Cell RMC, adipose tissue is harvested in a controlled, medical setting, processed on-site the same day using specialized equipment, and then carefully injected into the targeted area using imaging guidance. Because the tissue comes from the patient, this approach is considered autologous.

This is a more involved procedure than PRP and is typically considered when symptoms are more significant, when PRP has not provided adequate relief, or when the clinical picture suggests a stronger biologic option may be appropriate.

How the procedure works

The process is designed to be precise, controlled, and physician-led:

adipose-derived

Tissue harvest

A small amount of adipose tissue is collected using a minimally invasive liposuction technique.
A diagram depicts adipose tissue processing at RMC, illustrating separation and collection of stromal vascular fraction for clinical use.

Same-day processing (SVF)

The harvested tissue is processed on-site to isolate stromal vascular fraction (SVF), which contains a mixture of cells and biologic components. (click to enlarge image)
A gloved hand administers adipose-derived biologic material into a knee joint under X-ray; monitor shows image and injection location.

Image-guided injection

The prepared material is injected into the targeted joint or tissue using fluoroscopy with contrast verification to confirm accurate placement.

The entire process is typically completed in a single visit.

How this compares to PRP

PRP and adipose-derived therapies serve different roles.

PRP uses concentrated platelets from your blood and is often considered a first-line biologic option for certain tendon and joint problems. Adipose-derived therapy is more involved, includes a tissue harvest step, and is generally discussed when a stronger biologic approach may be appropriate.

Neither option is “better” in all cases. The right choice depends on diagnosis, severity, and goals.

Cell banking option

For patients who want long-term planning, adipose-derived cells can be sent to a qualified banking facility for storage. These cells may be available for future treatments if clinically appropriate. Storage is managed by the banking facility and typically involves an initial processing fee and annual storage fees.

Cell banking is optional and discussed during consultation based on individual goals.

What this treatment can and cannot do

Adipose-derived stem cell therapy is not a guaranteed cure, and it is not a replacement for surgery when structural damage is advanced. The goal is typically to reduce pain, improve function, and slow progression in select patients. Improvement, when it occurs, is gradual and may develop over weeks to months.

Some patients experience meaningful benefit. Others may see partial improvement or no significant change. Outcomes vary, and a responsible treatment plan includes discussion of limitations, risks, and alternatives.

This is an autologous biologic procedure discussed as an orthobiologic option; it is not FDA-approved as a treatment for arthritis.

What conditions may be treated

Adipose-derived therapies are most often discussed for orthopedic conditions involving:

  • Hip pain
  • Knee pain
  • Shoulder pain
  • Wrist and upper extremity conditions

For spine-related conditions, injections are handled by a pain physician to ensure appropriate expertise.

Not every diagnosis is appropriate for this type of treatment. Severity of disease, joint structure, prior surgery, overall health, and activity level all factor into candidacy.

Other Services

Explore Common Questions About Nevada Stem Cell RMC

Is this FDA-approved for arthritis?”
We’ll explain what’s known, what’s uncertain, and what that means for you during your consult.”
Most patients think in weeks-to-months, not days.
Hip, knee, shoulder, wrist; spine injections via pain physician.
Physician-only care

Procedures performed by an MD/DO. No delegated injectors.

Precision matters

Fluoroscopy with IV contrast to confirm accurate positioning before injection.

Right tool for the right patient

We discuss options, pros/cons, and alternatives, not everyone is a candidate.