Autologous Transplantation of Bone Marrow Mononuclear Stem-Cells by Mini-Thoracotomy

Autologous Transplantation of Bone Marrow Mononuclear Stem-Cells by Mini-Thoracotomy in Dilated Cardiomyopathy - Technique and Early Results

Bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMC) transplantation is a promising therapy for treating ischemic disease, however the effect in non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy is unknown.This study describes a technique of BMMC transplantation utilizing mini-thoracotomy and results up to one year after the procedure.

Inclusion Criteria:

• diagnosis made at more than two years and symptomatic at functional class III-IV by the New York Heart Association classification (NYHA) despite optimal pharmacologic therapy
• left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) less than 35%, by echocardiogram
• age below 60 years
• absence of neoplasm
• absence of hematologic disease or systemic disease
• no previous cardiac intervention

Exclusion Criteria:

• episodes of tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation
• severe or moderated mitral insufficiency
• any other valvulopathies