What Is SVF?
Stromal Vascular Fraction (SVF) is a rich mixture of cells and signaling proteins derived from a person's own fat tissue. Fat is more than just energy storage - it contains a biologically active environment filled with components that may support cellular communication and repair.
SVF includes a combination of:
- Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs)
- Pericytes
- Endothelial and immune cells
- Cytokines and growth factors
Together, these elements are being studied for their ability to influence inflammation, tissue health, and immune signaling. While promising, SVF use remains investigational and is not approved by the FDA for treating any condition.
How Is SVF Collected?
SVF is usually collected through a minimally invasive procedure:
- Harvesting: A small amount of fat is removed under local anesthesia via a gentle liposuction technique.
- Processing: The fat is processed using centrifugation and enzymatic digestion to isolate the SVF components.
- Application: If used, the SVF is reintroduced into an area of interest under ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance as part of a physician-supervised investigational protocol.
Procedure Overview
- Harvesting: Fat is collected via local anesthesia and a mini-liposuction technique.
- Processing: SVF is separated from other components using mechanical means (centrifugation) and enzymatic digestion with collagenase.
- Application: If used, the material is introduced under physician guidance in a compliant investigational context.
Why Is SVF Being Studied?
Researchers are evaluating how SVF may:
- Support joint and tissue environments
- Influence inflammatory pathways
- Contribute to intercellular communication
Its appeal lies in the abundance of regenerative cells found in fat, especially compared to sources like bone marrow.
One published study evaluated SVF injections in patients with knee osteoarthritis, observing symptom patterns and clinical outcomes in a non-pharmacologic setting:
Prospective Analysis of SVF for Knee Osteoarthritis – ClinMed Journals (2020)
Post-Procedure and Safety Considerations
Patients may experience:
- Mild swelling or bruising at the harvest or injection site
- Temporary soreness
- Variable outcomes depending on individual factors
This procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis. There is no guaranteed result, and individual responses may differ.
FDA Disclaimer: Stromal Vascular Fraction (SVF) is considered investigational and has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This content is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.