Stem cells may boost ACL graft healing in new trial

NCT ID NCT04650568

ENROLLING_BY_INVITATION Disease control Sponsor: Rush University Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether adding a patient's own bone marrow stem cells during ACL reconstruction helps the graft heal better. One hundred adults with recent ACL tears will receive either stem cells or a sham procedure. The main goal is to see if the graft looks healthier on MRI and if patients have better knee function and fewer symptoms.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: autologous bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells
What this could lead to: If it works, this could lead to faster and more complete healing of ACL grafts, reducing the need for repeat surgeries.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage study with no phase, so results are uncertain. The stem cells come from the patient's own bone marrow, which requires an extra procedure and may not improve outcomes.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT INJURY ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RUPTURE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Rush University Medical Center

Chicago, Illinois, 60521, United States

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