Pioneering stem cell brain trial has begunRSS Feed

Doctors have successfully injected stem cells into the brain of a Scottish man who suffered brain injury after a stroke.

The trial, called Pilot Investigation of Stem Cells in Stroke (PISCES), is designed to check the safety of the procedure on the man, who suffered an ischemic stroke caused by a blockage of blood to the brain.

PISCES, which will bring some hope to brain injury victims worldwide, is to be followed up by a series of MRI scans to look for repairs or changes in the patient's brain.

The procedure, carried out by scientists from Glasgow University, has earned praise from those in the medical profession and over the next year, up to 12 other patients will receive gradually increasing doses of the stem cells.

Kevin Muir, who led the trial, said that the trial would require careful follow up of patients who have undergone the procedure.

"We hope that in future it will lead on to larger studies to determine the effects of stem cells on the disabilities that result from stroke," he said.

According to the Stroke Association, an estimated 150,000 people suffer a stroke each year in the UK with around 67,000 dying as a result.

News from Serious Law, specialist acquired brain injury solicitors

Posted by John Sherrington
 

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