Stem cell cartilage repair at Leadheal Hospital in Seoul, South Korea, offers a modern solution for knee osteoarthritis and cartilage damage. This procedure uses autologous bone marrow stem cell transplantation to help regenerate joint tissue. The method was officially approved as a new medical technology by the Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare in July 2023.
Leadheal Hospital uses a specific method called BM transplantation. Doctors collect bone marrow from the patient's own iliac crest. They process these cells and inject them directly into the damaged knee joint. This approach serves as an effective alternative for patients facing advanced arthritis who want to avoid artificial joint surgery. The effectiveness of this treatment is supported by studies published in SCI-level international medical journals.
One of the primary advantages at this facility is the cost-effectiveness of the treatment. The BM transplantation typically runs about one-third of the price of Cartistem, which uses cultured stem cells. This makes advanced regeneration accessible to more patients. Leadheal Hospital serves over 44,000 patients annually and holds a Grade 1 rating for drug benefit adequacy and antibiotic prescribing from HIRA.
The orthopedic department is led by experienced specialists including Dr. Joo Seong-hoon and Dr. Kim Hae-min. Dr. Joo Seong-hoon completed his residency at the Catholic Central Medical Center and a fellowship in shoulder and joint surgery. He is a member of the Korean Orthopedic Association and the Korean Shoulder and Joint Society. He also holds certifications in bone density measurement and trigger point injections. The medical team treats international patients from North America, Australia, and Asia.
To learn more about joint repair options in Seoul, you may leave a request on Bookimed to receive personalized information.
Individual treatment program and cost estimate
Average answering time – 5 minutes
| treatment | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Stem cell therapy for knees | Price on request | |
| Stem cell therapy for arthritis | Price on request | |
| Stem Cell Cartilage Repair | Price on request |
Leadheal Hospital is a specialized medical center in South Korea focused on the diagnosis and treatment of spine and joint disorders. The hospital provides comprehensive care for conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative spine diseases, joint pain, and musculoskeletal injuries.
The clinic offers a wide range of treatment options, including minimally invasive spine surgery, endoscopic procedures, vertebroplasty, as well as non-surgical approaches such as physical therapy and pain management. Treatment plans are individually tailored based on each patient’s condition, lifestyle, and overall health status.
Leadheal Hospital is led by experienced neurosurgeons and orthopedic specialists. For example, Dr. Sang Won Hwang, a neurosurgeon with nearly 30 years of experience, has performed over 6,000 spine surgeries, with a focus on accurate diagnosis and minimally invasive techniques aimed at improving recovery and outcomes.
The hospital combines modern medical technology with a patient-centered approach, with the goal of reducing recovery time and improving quality of life. From initial consultation through rehabilitation, patients receive continuous and coordinated care.
Individual treatment program and cost estimate
Average answering time – 5 minutes
