Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is brain tissue damage caused by external mechanical forces, leading to temporary or permanent neurological dysfunction. Common causes include traffic accidents, falls from heights, and violent impacts. The pathological mechanisms involve both primary injury and secondary injury, such as cerebral edema, increased intracranial pressure, ischemia-hypoxia, and neuroinflammation. The most commonly affected areas are the frontal and temporal lobes, with clinical manifestations including consciousness impairment, cognitive deficits, motor coordination abnormalities, speech disorders, and emotional and behavioral changes. Given the brain’s limited regenerative capacity, severe TBI often results in the loss of self-care ability, regression in social roles, and long-term complications such as epilepsy and autonomic dysfunction.
Stem Cell Therapy for Traumatic Brain Injury
Stem cell therapy for TBI is an innovative strategy based on neural regeneration and modulation of the injury microenvironment. It aims to repair damaged neural networks, inhibit the progression of secondary injury, and achieve functional compensation and structural reconstruction. The therapeutic mechanisms and clinical benefits are outlined below:
Therapeutic Principles
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Cell Replacement: Animal studies have demonstrated that umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) can differentiate into neural cells, replacing damaged neurons and reconstructing neural circuits.
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Neurotrophic Support:
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UC-MSCs secrete a variety of neurotrophic factors that promote nerve growth and repair, including:
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- Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)
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- Nerve growth factor (NGF)
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- Neurotrophin-3 (NT-3)
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Angiogenesis Promotion:
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UC-MSCs secrete vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1). These factors directly or indirectly contribute to neurovascular formation and injury repair, ensuring adequate blood supply to damaged brain tissue.
Our advantages
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Pioneering the Field with Exceptional Clinical InsightSince completing the first stem cell therapy case for a patient with traumatic brain injury (TBI) in 2004, we have established ourselves as one of the earliest institutions in China to apply stem cell therapy in this domain. Over the years, we have amassed extensive clinical experience, enabling us to conduct comprehensive assessments of each patient’s condition and to formulate timely, accurate, and individualized treatment strategies.
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Comprehensive Delivery Techniques for Targeted, Effective TherapyOur treatment protocols incorporate a wide range of cell delivery methods, including intravenous infusion, stereotactic cranial transplantation, lumbar puncture, acupoint injection, and intranasal administration. Based on the patient's specific clinical profile, we employ an integrated, evidence-based approach to ensure precise targeting of the lesion site and to significantly enhance therapeutic efficacy.
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Broad Therapeutic Scope with Demonstrated Clinical OutcomesBeyond treating central nervous system dysfunction resulting from TBI, we actively address associated complications such as cranial defects and myositis ossificans. Our integrated approach has yielded consistently positive outcomes, offering robust support for holistic patient rehabilitation.
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Recognized Expertise and Academic ContributionOur accomplishments in stem cell therapy for TBI have attracted widespread media attention, and our clinical data have been compiled into published professional literature. These milestones underscore our significant technical expertise and leadership within the field.
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Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Continuity of CareWe uphold a multidisciplinary treatment philosophy that brings together the strengths of various medical disciplines to develop comprehensive, systematic care plans. In addition, we implement long-term follow-up mechanisms to monitor patient progress and adapt treatment protocols as needed—ensuring sustained, personalized support throughout the recovery journey.
Clinical Experience and Outcomes
Since 2004, Our medical team has successfully performed over 1,800 cases of stem cell therapy for TBI, achieving an overall efficacy rate of 85.2%. Our treatment covers a wide range of injury types:
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Focal Brain Injuries:
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Includes cerebral contusions and subdural hematomas, often accompanied by localized neurological deficits.
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Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI):
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Widespread damage to white matter fibers, leading to consciousness impairment and cognitive decline.
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Open Head Injuries:
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High risk of infection, requiring a combination of anti-inflammatory and neuroregenerative treatments.
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Brainstem Injuries:
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Severe cases characterized by autonomic instability and long tract signs.
According to our clinical experience, while stem cell transplantation remains effective even years after injury, early intervention following TBI—once the patient's general condition stabilizes—leads to significantly better outcomes.
Key Improvements Noted in Patients:
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Cognitive Recovery:
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Significant improvements in memory, attention, and executive function.
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Motor Function Enhancement:
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Increased muscle strength, improved mobility, and better hand dexterity.
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Speech and Swallowing Function Restoration:
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- Expanded vocabulary and improved articulation in aphasic patients.
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- Videofluoroscopic swallowing studies (VFSS) show a reduced risk of aspiration, leading to the restoration of oral feeding ability.
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Emotional and Behavioral Regulation:
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- Reduced scores on anxiety and depression scales (HAMA, HAMD).
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- Decreased impulsive behaviors and increased willingness to participate in social activities.
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Epilepsy Control:
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- Reduced or eliminated seizure frequency.
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- EEG improvements and decreased or discontinued use of antiepileptic medications.
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Autonomic Function Stabilization:
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- Improved body temperature regulation, reduced blood pressure fluctuations, and better bladder and bowel control.
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- Significant enhancement in overall quality of life.
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Consciousness Recovery:
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- Among patients in a vegetative state, 40% transitioned to a minimally conscious state.
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- Some patients regained emotional responses.
In the treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI) , we integrate stem cell technology, neuromodulation, and AI-assisted rehabilitation training to offer diverse therapeutic options within a comprehensive service system. Our approach extends beyond the restoration of physical function—we place equal emphasis on psychological rehabilitation and family empowerment, supporting patients in reclaiming their dignity and sense of purpose.