Security and Efficacy of Intra-Portal Infusion of Autologous Stem Cells for Liver Regeneration a Randomized Pilot Study

Aim: To analyze security of intraportal infusion of autologous stem cells during portal embolization to increase remanent liver volume. Methods: Phase II clinical trial studying intraportal infusion of autologous stem cells processed from patient bone marrow. Stem cells are applicated during preoperatoy portal embolization used to increase the volume of remanent liver in patient's subsidiary of major hepatectomy. Results: 12 patients, of which 5 have undergone PE and intraportal infusion of SC: liver metastasis of colorectal carcinoma 40% / 42.8%, hepatocellular carcinoma 40% / cholangiocarcinoma 28.6% and 20% / 28.6%. Average bone marrow extracted in SC-group patients was 270 cc, having infused a mean of 36 cc of intraportal SC. Not fever cases, not portal vein thrombosis liver abscess or tumor disease progression were detected. Biopsies token during hepatectomy did not show fibrosis or hepatic steatosis different from ablated tissue. Differences in the increase of the volume of the remnant liver were not statistically significant. Conclusion: The intraportal infusion of autologous stem cells, extracted and processed from the patient's own bone marrow, using the procedure portal embolization for intrahepatic infusion, appears to be a safe method.