A New Classification for Adipose-derived Stromal-cell Systems

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Adipose Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Clinical applications of regenerative cells from adipose tissue are increasingly popular in plastic surgery.
• A lack of standardized classification exists for adipose tissue processing methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel classification system for methods of obtaining stromal cells from adipose tissue.
• To categorize these methods based on the fat content remaining in the final product for graft use.

Main Methods:

• Adipose tissue processing methods classified into direct (adinizing, enzymatic) and indirect (emulsification, micro-fragmentation/micronization) approaches.
• Subclassification based on remaining fat: fat (+), fat (-), and fat (±).
• Enzymatic and emulsification methods are fat (-), adinizing is fat (+), and micronization is fat (±).

Main Results:

• Adinizing method is classified as fat (+) as it allows full use of the adipose tissue.
• Enzymatic and emulsification methods are fat (-) due to enzyme presence or fat tissue damage.
• Micro-fragmentation/micronization is fat (±) due to potential intact adipocytes.

Conclusions:

• The proposed classification provides a framework for understanding and comparing adipose tissue processing techniques.
• Adinizing method demonstrates superior efficiency and complete product utilization.
• This classification aims to guide clinicians in selecting appropriate methods for regenerative cell therapy.