Chronic wounds are a serious medical concern that affect millions of people worldwide. Unlike acute wounds that heal within a predictable timeframe, chronic wounds remain open for weeks or even months, often resisting conventional treatment. Common examples include diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, pressure sores, and surgical wounds that fail to close properly. These persistent wounds can significantly reduce quality of life, increase the risk of infection, and in severe cases lead to complications such as tissue loss or amputation.
Several factors contribute to poor wound healing. Reduced blood circulation, prolonged inflammation, bacterial contamination, and underlying conditions such as diabetes or vascular disease can interfere with the body’s natural repair process. Standard treatments—such as wound cleaning, dressings, antibiotics, and surgical interventions—are sometimes not sufficient to stimulate meaningful healing. In recent years, regenerative medicine has introduced a new therapeutic option. Umbilical cord–derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) are now being explored in Thailand as an advanced approach to support tissue repair and accelerate recovery in difficult-to-heal wounds.
UC-MSCs are obtained from donated umbilical cord tissue and processed under strict laboratory conditions to ensure safety and quality. These cells are known for their strong regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and immune-regulating properties. Rather than simply covering or protecting the wound, stem cell therapy works by activating the body’s own healing mechanisms and improving the biological environment at the injury site.
How Stem Cells Promote Healing in Chronic Wounds
- Tissue Regeneration and Cellular Repair
One of the most important roles of stem cells is to support the regeneration of damaged tissue. These cells release bioactive substances that stimulate skin cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells to grow and function more effectively. This process helps rebuild the structural layers of the skin and underlying tissue. By encouraging the production of collagen and extracellular matrix components, stem cells contribute to stronger, healthier wound closure.
- Control of Persistent Inflammation
Chronic wounds are often trapped in a prolonged inflammatory phase, which prevents normal healing from progressing. Stem cells produce anti-inflammatory cytokines that help calm excessive immune activity. By reducing inflammation, the wound environment becomes more favorable for tissue regeneration. This shift allows the healing process to move forward into the stages of tissue formation and remodeling.
- Stimulation of New Blood Vessel Formation
Adequate blood flow is essential for delivering oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells to a wound. Many chronic wounds suffer from poor circulation, which slows recovery. Stem cells promote angiogenesis—the formation of new blood vessels—by releasing vascular growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Improved microcirculation enhances tissue oxygenation and supports faster and more effective healing.
- Support for Infection Defense
Infection is a major barrier to wound closure and can lead to serious complications if not controlled. Stem cells help regulate immune responses at the wound site, improving the body’s ability to fight harmful microorganisms. In addition, these cells secrete antimicrobial peptides and signaling molecules that contribute to a protective environment. Better infection control allows tissue repair to proceed without interruption.
- Release of Growth Factors for Tissue Remodeling
Stem cells produce a wide range of growth factors that play key roles in wound healing. These include fibroblast growth factor (FGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and transforming growth factor (TGF). Together, these substances stimulate cell migration, collagen formation, and wound contraction. The result is more organized tissue repair and reduced risk of excessive scarring.
Methods of Applying Stem Cells for Chronic Wounds in Thailand
Direct Injection: Stem cells may be injected into the wound bed or surrounding tissue. This method allows the cells to interact directly with damaged areas and begin their regenerative activity immediately.
Topical Application: Stem cells can be incorporated into specialized gels, sprays, or advanced wound dressings. These materials are applied directly to the wound surface, allowing sustained exposure to regenerative factors over time.
Scaffold-Based Delivery: In some cases, biomaterial scaffolds are used to support cell attachment and growth. These structures help retain the cells at the wound site and provide a framework for new tissue formation.
All treatments are performed under medical supervision, often alongside standard wound care practices such as infection control, pressure relief, and management of underlying medical conditions.
Potential Benefits of Stem Cell Therapy for Chronic Wounds
- Accelerated healing time, helping wounds close more quickly than with conventional care alone
- Improved tissue quality, with stronger, more functional skin and reduced scarring
- Pain reduction, as inflammation decreases and tissue repair progresses
- Lower risk of complications, including severe infection and tissue loss
- Reduced likelihood of amputation, particularly in patients with diabetic foot ulcers or advanced vascular disease
By restoring a healthier healing environment, stem cell therapy supports long-term recovery rather than temporary wound management.
Treatment Process in Thailand
Thailand has become a recognized center for regenerative medicine, offering modern facilities and experienced medical teams. The treatment process typically includes:
- Comprehensive evaluation, including medical history, wound assessment, and laboratory tests
- Preparation of stem cells in certified laboratories that meet strict quality and safety standards
- Cell administration using injection, topical, or scaffold-based techniques
- Ongoing monitoring, including wound measurements, infection control, and management of underlying conditions such as diabetes or vascular disease
Conclusion
UC-MSC stem cell therapy represents an important advancement in the management of chronic wounds. By promoting tissue regeneration, reducing inflammation, improving blood flow, supporting immune defense, and releasing essential growth factors, this treatment addresses the underlying biological barriers to healing. In Thailand, where regenerative medicine continues to develop, stem cell therapy offers a promising option for individuals struggling with persistent or non-healing wounds.
While further research is needed to establish long-term outcomes and standardized protocols, current findings highlight the potential of stem cell therapy to transform chronic wound care. By harnessing the body’s natural repair mechanisms, this approach may help patients achieve faster healing, better tissue recovery, and an improved quality of life.