Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A New Therapeutic Option in Orthopaedics

Advances in technology and regulatory support have made stem cell therapy part of transforming modern health services for parents planning long-term health care. ‘The development of stem cell therapies, now under national regulatory frameworks, shows that regenerative medicine is no longer a future concept. Storing stem cells from birth is a form of long-term health planning that aligns with advances in medical science today,’ said Dr Meriana Virtin, Deputy Medical Director of PT Cordlife Persada, on Sunday 8 March 2026.

As is known, in 2024 the Ministry of Health issued Decree HK.01.07/MENKES/1395/2024 on Guidelines for the Provision of Stem Cell Therapy Services in Orthopaedics and Traumatology. The decree states that currently stem cell therapy for several orthopedic conditions can be performed at healthcare facilities that meet standards and comply with applicable regulations. She continued that some studies show stem cells’ potential to assist in restoring body function by supporting tissue recovery in other conditions such as stroke and cerebral palsy. ‘Nevertheless, this therapy must be performed according to medical indications and under the supervision of a competent doctor in the field,’ she said.

She added that the type of stem cell most studied and used in orthopedics is Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC). MSC has the ability to aid repair and regeneration of damaged body tissues and help reduce inflammation such as osteoarthritis, as well as injuries to the spine or osteoporosis.

She added that with the development of stem cell therapy in Indonesia, storage of blood and umbilical cord tissue from birth becomes increasingly important. ‘Umbilical cord, which is usually discarded after delivery, is actually a source of MSC and can be cryogenically stored so that the cells remain viable for future use,’ she concluded. (H-2)

Regenic is a pioneer in cell-based therapy development in Indonesia and is the first stem cell production facility to obtain CPOB certification. The stem cell laboratory, Swiss Biotech, appointed Prof. Dr. Deby Vinski as an expert council member.