Stem Cell Solutions
Information Booklet
Contents About
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What are stem cells?
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Our Philosophy
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Our Technology
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Meet the team
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Our Stem Cell Sollutions and Process
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Concierge
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Contact Us
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Welcome to
WHERE WE ARE ON THE FOREFRONT OF EXCITING INNOVATIONS IN THE PAIN MANAGEMENT FIELD OF MEDICINE At Stem Cell Solutions, we understand that living and dealing with joint and limb pain on a daily basis becomes exhausting, frustrating and even depressing. For some people pain is a way of life and at Stem Cell Solutions on the Gold Coast we can offer access to this exciting new treatment option, where we utilise your body’s own repair cells to treat an array of common medical problems without the need for complex and invasive surgery! We have generated a sustainable treatment for arthritis among other ailments in the body.
We employ the highest standards of care to ensure you are in a safe, secure and clean environment where you are free to relax and feel comfortable in our modern clinic. At Stem Cell Solutions our comprehensive medical background has helped us recognise that traditional medical treatments and methods do not manage pain as effectively as we would like, which is why we are part of a research effort into the application and effectiveness of Ultrasonic Cavitation Stem Cell Therapy.
At Stem Cell Solutions on the Gold Coast we provide stem cell treatment that has generated positive results for patients suffering from chronic sources of pain and discomfort such as arthritis, knee and hip pain, other joint pains and sports injuries. Our method optimises cell extraction, where we focus primarily on modifying your symptoms to aid with pain management so you can be relieved of restrictive aches and pains caused by arthritis.
WHILST STEM CELL THERAPY IS NOT A CURE, WE HAVE GENERATED SOME STELLAR RESULTS FOR OUR PATIENTS Stem Cell Solutions Page
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What Are
Stem Cells? STEM CELLS CAN REGENERATE TISSUE IN THE BODY AND REDUCE THE EFFECTS OF ARTHRITIS AND MUSCULOSKELETAL ISSUES Stem cells can be divided into two types of cells: embryonic and adult stem cells. Embryonic stem cells are derived from the early embryonic tissue which we at Stem Cell Solutions do not use for ethical reasons. Adult stem cells are obtained from adult tissue and are commonly found in most tissue types. These cells act as the repair system for the body; replenishing and maintaining the body’s organs and tissues, and can easily be sourced from adipose (fat) tissue. There are two things that make stem cells unique: Firstly, they can selfregenerate, which means they can divide and create more stem cells of the same kind. Secondly, they can mature or differentiate into specialised cells that perform a specific function, such as skin, muscle or blood cells.
HOW ARE STEM CELLS USED FOR TREATMENT? The strict medical terminology is autologous adipose-stromal vascular fraction, or stem cell treatment for short. Stem cell treatment is a refinement of fat transfer that has been used in cosmetic surgery since 1983 and is considered extremely safe. Refinement comes as the fat cells are removed, leaving the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cells, which contain mesenchymal stem cells (cells that can develop into connective tissue cells). The remaining cells include important immune regulating cells, early mesenchymal cells and many growth factors and cytokines. A vast number of these cells are available in fat and we routinely transfer hundreds of millions of these cells for each patient.
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Once separated from adipose (fat) tissue, we do not manipulate the SVF cells. They are injected unchanged. We do not culture the cells, nor use animal products. A large body of scientific evidence suggests that adiposeSVF may act by replacing lost or damaged cells, thereby reducing inflammation, improving the function of the cells at the site and recruiting cells from other areas to assist in these processes. We understand that every patient is different and has unique needs, which is why we urge you to visit us for a consultation, where we can recommend the best course of action to aid you in your pain management. The differences between our own treatment and other adult stem cell procedures include: uu Less painful than a bone marrow harvesting
ARE THERE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF STEM CELL TRANSPLANTATION? While no minor adverse side effects have been observed at our Gold Coast clinic, it is still possible that they can occur on the day of treatment. These marginal side effects can include a slight fever or rash. Common short-term side effects of the liposuction procedure include abdominal pain, abdominal bruising (which can last up to two weeks) and slight bleeding or leakage (can last 24-48 hours). While we have not observed any major side effects of stem cell therapy in the long-term, we are always compiling new data and are committed to your overall health. This is why we will ask you to revisit us for a standard follow-up assessment.
uu More adult stem cells per unit volume can be harvested
At Stem Cell Solutions we focus on your individual requirements
uu Clean separation of cells using no chemicals
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Our WE ENDEAVOUR TO PROVIDE OUR PATIENTS WITH A SAFE, EFFECTIVE TREATMENT FOR PAIN MANAGEMENT At Stem Cell Solutions we aim for the best patient outcomes possible, and we will take the time to evaluate your individual needs to discover whether you are a suitable candidate for stem cell therapy. We strongly believe in maintaining the highest standards of care and service possible. With over thirty years in the medical profession, we have realised that conventional medical methods often only treat symptoms, not pain, which is why we provide this exciting treatment in the hope of providing an effective pain management treatment.
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FEEL INFORMED WITH US AT STEM CELL SOLUTIONS ON THE GOLD COAST… At Stem Cell Solutions we strive to provide our patients with as much information as possible, which is why we not only grant access to prior research and patient forms, but Dr Johnston will also sit at our round table in order to have a conversation – not consultation – with you.
Our EXPERIENCE THE LATEST IN STEM CELL TECHNOLOGY AT OUR GOLD COAST CLINIC Our tranquil, picturesque Gold Coast clinic now uses the latest and cleanest method to obtain our stem cells – ultrasonic cavitation. Ultrasonic Cavitation produces a shockwave that strips the stem cells from the fat and tissue. It encourages the separation of stem cells from fat deposits and is a clean and quick procedure. It does not require any chemicals or reagents which ensures your peace of mind. This clean method also provides a significant increase in cell numbers compared to the traditional method of using collagenase. We also utilise the most advanced, innovative and stateof-the-art machinery and technology to ensure our patients receive the best in service and care every single time.
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Meet The Team DR KEN JOHNSTON DOCTOR
Dr Ken Johnston has a keen interest in myofascial and stem cell therapy used to treat chronic pain. Ken is a Queensland graduate with 30 years’ experience and postgraduate qualifications in Sports Medicine and Clinical Nutrition. Ken has been working in the field of pain and injury management for 20 years and has been involved in both hands on treatment – myofascial therapy ( a needling
technique) and more recently extensive operative experience as part of a spine surgery team. He has also been involved with the nutritional management of pain and its metabolic consequences in sporting and non-sporting problems.
KYLIE MCKENZIE SCIENTIST
Kylie will utilise her scientific knowledge to investigate the use of advanced treatments for arthritis and musculoskeletal issues. Kylie attended Griffith University where she graduated with a Bachelor of Health Science majoring in Microbiology in 2010 and received her Master of Medical Research in 2012. During her time at Griffith University Kylie gained research experience from the Institute of Glycomics and the Genomics Research Centre. She is a Neurophysiology (EMG / NCS) Technician working for NMSA as well as training in autotransfusion and blood management skills with Blood Management Services Australia.
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SONYA HILTON
REGISTERED NURSE AND PRACTICE MANAGER
Sonya is our registered nurse and she will help you treat your chronic pain caused by arthritis or other skeletal complications. Sonya is a registered nurse trained at the Gold Coast hospital and has extensive experience in general practice nursing as well as minor theatre procedures. She received her certificate of Diabetes Education from Curtin University in 2007.
In the last 12 years Sonya has worked alongside Dr Johnston and her primary focus has been nutritional strategies for treating chronic pain, injury management, energy, stress and chronic disease management.
SASHA BAUDISTEL SCIENTIST
Sasha will use her passion for medicine and neurophysiology to help you manage chronic pain. Sasha graduated from Griffith University in 2012 with a Bachelor of Exercise Science. She is currently working for NMSA as a Neurophysiology Technician and is fully trained to manage Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS), EMG and Stem Cell Studies. Sasha has also had placement at the Gold Coast Hospital as a Cardiac Technician and is passionate about medicine.
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Our
Stem Cell Solutions
WE ARE DEDICATED TO BRINGING YOU AN INNOVATIVE AND MINIMALLY INVASIVE PAIN MANAGEMENT THERAPY By utilising your own cells we are able to conduct a safe and thorough treatment with minimal chance of cell rejection. We use your body’s own healing chemicals and growth material which we inject via intravenous drip or, if necessary, directly into your problem area to encourage cell rejuvenation and repair. This in turn has shown positive results for many patients in the form of reducing pain and increasing mobility SUITABLE CANDIDATES If you are suffering from osteoarthritis, other joint problems or musculoskeletal pain you may be an ideal candidate for adult stem cell therapy. However due to strict regulations and quality control, there are instances in which you may be unsuitable to receive stem cell therapy.
ENSURE YOU ARE SUITABLE FOR STEM CELL THERAPY IN AUSTRALIA… There are some conditions that would complicate or exclude stem cell therapy, and a medical evaluation is part of our assessment protocol. You need to be reasonably well, have a little bit of fat, not undergoing cancer treatment and other conditions such as pregnancy and bleeding disorders may need further evaluation before we could proceed to treatment.
AT STEM CELL SOLUTIONS WE ARE COMMITTED TO YOUR SAFETY AND AS SUCH EMPLOY STRICT SELECTION CRITERIA TO ENSURE YOUR QUALITY OF CARE
THE PROCESS At Stem Cell Solutions on the Gold Coast we have a transparent process, and are happy to cater to your thirst for knowledge. We utilise specific questionnaires to help assess pain levels of the affected region and to oversee the results of your treatment. The overall treatment plan consists of: uu Pre-treatment – Assessment and evaluation of not only your problem areas but also general health, which may include: imaging, query (x-rays, MRI’s, etc.) uu Day 1 – Treatment uu Day 2 – Review with treating doctor uu Monthly to 4 months – Validated scale and pain scale uu 6 monthly – Validated scale and pain scale uu 12 monthly – Validated scale and pain scale Where each patient’s treatment will differ according to their needs, our process stays the same: 1. Pre-assessment 2. Treatment 3.
Follow-up procedure
PRE-ASSESSMENT The pre-assessment is essentially a consultation, where we ensure you are a suitable candidate for our stem cell therapy process and any and all questions are answered in detail by Dr Johnston, who performs all of our stem cell treatments at our Gold Coast clinic. For a comprehensive list of pre-operative instructions, view our PDF. It is important these instructions are read before and again after your treatment.
TREATMENT The stem cells are procured through a gentle liposuction procedure where we take only 100-200ml of matter. A new technique is used to ‘shake the tissue’ to get a high yield of cells without need for the use of drugs. The stem cells are then inserted back into the patient either through an intravenous drip or, if necessary, an ultrasound guided needle straight into the affected region. If the patient requires to be directly injected, we take 300mL of blood from the patient and separate platelets from the rest of the blood cells to inject with the stem cells. FOLLOW-UP PROCEDURE Patients can leave the clinic shortly after the stem cell treatment. Pain is usually minimal and controlled with Panadol. Avoid aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications as these may produce bruising.
Concierge AT STEM CELL SOLUTIONS WE CATER TO THOSE OUTSIDE THE GOLD COAST WITH OUR FLY IN/FLY OUT SERVICE! HOW DO I FIND YOU? Stem Cell Solutions takes pride in ensuring your visit to us is as effortless and satisfying as possible. We are conveniently located near a variety of local businesses, so whether you are looking for a place to stay or a fantastic meal during your getaway there are a wide variety of welcoming accommodation options and restaurants that are sure to fulfil your needs. We are also very close to comfortable and afforable accommodation including: uu
Brighton Shores
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Blue Water Bay
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Blue Waters
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Meriton Apartments
Should you prefer something more luxurious, we are also very close to the Royal Pines Resort that offers a world class choice of accommodation, dining and other leisure facilities.
If you are not local to the Gold Coast you do not have to miss out on effective pain management. At Stem Cell Solutions we can offer a full consultation, treatment and recovery in just three to four days – the perfect amount of time for you to have a small getaway! This three to four day stay comprises of a full consultation, an appointment for treatment the following day, after which we allow 1-2 days to ensure you recover well, are rested and ready to travel. Visit us at the beautiful Gold Coast to experience pristine beaches and warm, ambient sunshine before undergoing treatment to help manage your pain! Take advantage of our ideally located clinic and enjoy the wonders of the Gold Coast. WE ARE EASILY ACCESSIBLE AND CONVENIENTLY PLACED BETWEEN TWO MAJOR AIRPORTS! There are two major airports that service the Gold Coast. Of these, Brisbane Airport is frequently the most popular as it hosts a train service that runs direct to the Gold Coast in just over one hour, which means your trip to our clinic is swift and hassle free. Gold Coast’s other major airport is Coolangatta Airport, which is located at the southern end of the Gold Coast, just off the Gold Coast Highway. Although Coolangatta does not host train services, car rentals, buses and taxis are readily available for your convenience.
NEED AN EXCUSE FOR A HOLIDAY? Your treatment at Stem Cell Solutions is the perfect excuse to take a much needed holiday! Our clinic is central to a myriad of shopping centres, gorgeous mountain resorts, wineries, the Turf Club, Jupiter’s Casino, the Arts Centre and pristine beaches. Sit back, relax and enjoy some time away at a premier tourist destination while receiving your stem cell treatment. HOW DO I GET THERE? From M1 Take Smith Street exit 66 and continue towards Southport for about 7km. Turn right into High Street. After about 1km turn left into Lawson Street. Continue through the roundabout and enter the underground car park for two hours free parking. From Queen Street turn at the lights into Garden Street then at the roundabout turn right into Lawson Street and enter the underground car park for two hours of free parking.
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Contact Us WE ARE HAPPY TO ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS AT ANY TIME, AND ENCOURAGE OUR PATIENTS TO UNDERSTAND AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE ABOUT OUR PROCESS
PHONE: 07 5591 5505 FAX: 07 5591 8840 EMAIL: info@stemcellsolutions.com.au
ADDRESS Suite 30712, 7th Floor 9 Lawson Street Southport, Gold Coast Queensland 4215
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OPENING HOURS Monday 9:00am - 4:30pm Tuesday 9:00am - 4:30pm Wednesday 9:00am - 4:30pm Thursday 9:00am - 4:30pm Friday 9:00am - 3:00pm
Emma Hilton S2800513