What is Lipogems®

Lipogems® — patented Italian technology (Prof. Carlo Tremolada, Milan) for obtaining microfragmented adipose tissue without enzymatic processing. Preserves the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) in natural extracellular matrix (ECM).

Composition of Lipogems®

Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSC)

Multipotent cells capable of differentiating into: chondrocytes (cartilage), tenocytes (tendons), osteoblasts (bone), fibrocytes (ligaments), nucleus pulposus cells (intervertebral disc). Adipose tissue is the richest source of MSC: 500-1000 times more than in bone marrow.

Pericytes

Stem cells of the vascular wall. Stabilize microcirculation in the injury area. Upon activation, differentiate into MSC — additional stem cell reserve. Secrete angiogenic factors.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

Natural scaffold of collagen, fibronectin, laminin. Preserves the stem cell niche — environment ensuring their survival, proliferation, and directed differentiation. Advantage over isolated cells: MSC in matrix function significantly better.

Preparation of Lipogems®

1. Mini-Lipoaspiration

From the abdominal area (or thighs) through a 2-3 mm puncture under local anesthesia. 20-50 ml of adipose tissue is harvested. Blunt-tipped cannula is used — minimal trauma. Procedure takes 10-15 minutes.

2. Processing in Lipogems® Device

Adipose tissue is processed in a closed sterile system. Mechanical (non-enzymatic!) microfragmentation. Washing with saline removes oil and cellular debris. Result: microfragments 0.3-0.8 mm with preserved ECM structure and viable cells.

3. Injection

Ready Lipogems® is injected into the injury area through an 18-20G needle. Under ultrasound or X-ray navigation for precise positioning. Microfragments integrate into surrounding tissue, MSC begin differentiation.

Mechanism of Action in Orthopedics

Differentiation

MSC from Lipogems® differentiate into cells of the required type depending on the microenvironment. In the joint — into chondrocytes, in the tendon — into tenocytes, in the bone — into osteoblasts. This is directed differentiation determined by signals from surrounding tissue.

Paracrine Secretion

MSC secrete dozens of bioactive molecules: anti-inflammatory (IL-10, PGE2, TSG-6), antifibrotic (HGF, bFGF), neurotrophic (NGF, BDNF, GDNF), angiogenic (VEGF, Ang-1). Paracrine effect is often more important than direct differentiation.

Immunomodulation

MSC suppress Th1/Th17 (pro-inflammatory) and stimulate Treg (regulatory) T-lymphocytes. Switch macrophages from M1 (inflammation) to M2 (regeneration). This is not immunosuppression, but modulation — normalization of the immune response.

Angiogenesis

Pericytes and MSC stimulate growth of new vessels in the injury area. Improved microcirculation ensures delivery of nutrients and oxygen for regeneration.

Lipogems® vs Bone Marrow

Parameter Lipogems® (adipose tissue) BMAC (bone marrow)
MSC Count 500-1000x more Baseline level
Harvesting Mini-lipo (local anesthesia, 10 min) Iliac crest puncture (painful)
ECM (niche) Preserved Destroyed during aspiration
Cell Viability High (in niche) Low (isolated cells)
Volume 20-50 ml (always sufficient) 10-20 ml (limited)
Age Effect Minimal Significant (decreases with age)

Application in MIBRAR®

Osteoarthritis (cartilage regeneration)

Intra-articular injection of Lipogems® + CGF. MSCs differentiate into chondrocytes, synthesizing type II collagen and aggrecan. Structural cartilage restoration on MRI after 6-12 months.

Herniations and disc protrusions

Intradiscal injection. MSCs differentiate into nucleus pulposus cells, restoring disc hydration and height. Unique capability—no other method regenerates the disc.

Tendinopathies

Peritendinous injection. MSCs differentiate into tenocytes, synthesizing type I collagen. Restoration of normal tendon structure.

Avascular Necrosis

Injection into the femoral head necrosis zone. MSCs + pericytes stimulate neovascularization and osteogenesis. Prevention of femoral head collapse.

Your own stem cells—the best regeneration tool

Lipogems® + CGF = MIBRAR®—complete regenerative system.

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Questions about Lipogems®

What is Lipogems®?

Patented technology for obtaining microfragmented adipose tissue containing mesenchymal stem cells, pericytes, and extracellular matrix. Second key component of MIBRAR®.

Where is the adipose tissue harvested from?

Mini-lipoaspiration from the abdomen or thighs. 20-50 ml. Under local anesthesia, through a 2-3 mm puncture. Minimal discomfort, no scars.

Why adipose tissue, not bone marrow?

Adipose tissue contains 500-1000 times more stem cells. Harvesting is less traumatic. Lipogems® preserves the niche (ECM), increasing cell viability. Less age dependency.

Is a lot of adipose tissue needed?

Only 20-50 ml—this is a very small volume. Even slim patients have sufficient adipose tissue in the abdomen. Volume not comparable to cosmetic liposuction.