A team in Spain has developed the Consecutive Intrabronchial Administration (CIBA) method for administering stem cell therapies to ECMO-supported critically ill patients with lung issues.
ECMO, an advanced life support system, makes traditional intravenous cell infusions difficult, but CIBA delivers stem cells directly to the lungs without hindering ECMO function.
The method uses bronchoscopy to target pulmonary alveoli with Wharton's jelly-derived mesenchymal stromal cells that possess regenerative and immunomodulatory properties.
In a first case application on a critically ill child, the CIBA method was well-tolerated and led to extubation within 72 hours, showcasing its potential clinical benefits.
The research aims to explore repeated dosing and long-term efficacy, providing a promising avenue for future clinical trials and expanded use.
CIBA represents a fusion of pulmonology, bioengineering, and cell therapy, requiring precise control over cell delivery to avoid complications.
By avoiding patent protection, the team intends to promote rapid adoption of CIBA in public healthcare systems globally, emphasizing equitable access to innovative treatments.
The application of MSCs directly in the lungs postulates localized effects that can aid in mitigating lung damage and promoting tissue repair, especially in end-stage lung diseases.
Clinical trials will be crucial to validate CIBA's effectiveness, optimize dosing, and assess safety for potential future use in adult patients and various lung conditions.
The CIBA technique signals a shift towards integrating regenerative medicine into critical care settings, offering hope for improved outcomes in individuals facing respiratory failure.