Spinal Cord Injury Stem Cell Therapy in Colombia for Patients from Canada Looking for a New Chance at Life

For Canadian patients living with the life-altering effects of a spinal cord injury (SCI), the limitations of conventional rehabilitation can be frustrating. While Canada offers world-class acute care, access to advanced regenerative therapies is often restricted to limited clinical trials or unavailable altogether. Spinal cord injury stem cell therapy in Colombia has emerged as a viable, scientifically grounded alternative, offering a new chance at life for those seeking to regain lost function.

Leading this medical frontier is Regencord in Pereira, Colombia. Situated in the heart of the Coffee Axis, Regencord specializes in high-potency Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) derived from ethically sourced umbilical cord tissue (Wharton’s Jelly). For Canadians facing long waitlists or "no further options" diagnoses at home, Regencord’s Stem Cell Treatment for Spinal Cord Injury Package offers a comprehensive, regulated, and hope-filled pathway to recovery.

What is Stem Cell Therapy for Spinal Cord Injury?

This regenerative treatment aims to bridge the gap in damaged neural circuitry, using stem cells to repair the spinal cord environment and improve signal transmission.

In a spinal cord injury, the connection between the brain and the body is severed or damaged by trauma. Stem cell therapy introduces millions of potent cells into the body to repair this damage. At Regencord, the focus is on Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs), which work through three main mechanisms:

1. Neuroprotection: Preventing further death of nerve cells at the injury site.

2. Immunomodulation: Reducing the chronic inflammation (glial scarring) that blocks nerve signals.

3. Regeneration: Stimulating the growth of new blood vessels and potentially supporting the repair of the myelin sheath (nerve insulation).

Top Center: Regencord in Pereira, Colombia

Regencord is a state-of-the-art facility located in Pereira, known for its rigorous adherence to international biological safety standards.

Why Canadians Choose Regencord

• Expert Leadership: The medical team includes specialists like Dr. Julieta Henao Bonilla (Medical Geneticist) and Dr. Natalia Marulanda Arango (Medical Coordinator). Their background in genetics ensures that every cell batch is screened for maximum viability and safety.

• High-Volume Protocols: Unlike Canadian trials that might use lower doses, Regencord’s lab can legally expand cells to therapeutic doses of 100 million to 300 million cells, increasing the potential for recovery.

• Holistic Location: Pereira is a tranquil, smaller city compared to Bogota or Medellin, offering a lower-stress environment that is ideal for neurological recovery.

Stem Cell Treatment for Spinal Cord Injury Package

This all-inclusive package is designed to remove the logistical burden from the patient, allowing them to focus entirely on their neurological rehabilitation.

Package Name: Stem Cell Treatment for Spinal Cord Injury Package

Provider: Regencord

Location: Pereira, Colombia

What is Included:

• Medical Assessment: Review of MRI/CT scans and neurological evaluation by Dr. Natalia Marulanda Arango.

• Stem Cell Procedure:

  • Intrathecal Injection: Direct delivery into the spinal canal to reach the injury site (lumbar puncture).

  • Intravenous (IV) Infusion: Systemic delivery to reduce overall inflammation.

  • Cell Count: Typically 100 million to 300 million MSCs (adjusted for weight and injury level).

• Therapies: Physical therapy sessions during the stay to "activate" the new cells.

• Logistics:

  • VIP Airport transfer from Matecaña International Airport (PEI).

  • Assistance with booking accessible accommodation (hotels like Hotel Movich are nearby and wheelchair friendly).

  • Local transportation between hotel and clinic.

Estimated Price: $11,000 USD (approx. $15,000 CAD)

The price includes all medical fees, donor cell costs, and facility charges. It does not typically include flights or hotel costs, though corporate rates are available.

Cost Comparison: Colombia vs. North America

For Canadian patients paying out-of-pocket, Colombia offers premium medical care at a fraction of the cost found in the US or other medical hubs.

Treatment Location	Average Cost (USD)	Cell Source
Regencord (Pereira, Colombia)	$11,000	Umbilical Cord (Expanded)
USA (BioXcellerator/Others)	$30,000+	Umbilical Cord
Panama	$25,000 - $35,000	Umbilical Cord
Canada (Private)	Not Available*	N/A

*Note: In Canada, this therapy is largely restricted to research trials. Private access to expanded MSCs for SCI is virtually non-existent due to Health Canada regulations.

Journey from Canada to Pereira: Travel Logistics

Pereira is easily accessible, and the "Check-Mig" process makes entry straightforward for Canadian citizens.

1. Flights

• Route: Most Canadians fly from Toronto (YYZ), Montreal (YUL), or Vancouver (YVR) to Bogotá (BOG).

• Connection: From Bogotá, it is a short 45-minute flight to Pereira (PEI). Airlines like Avianca and LATAM operate this route frequently.

• Accessibility: Regencord’s team can arrange for wheelchair assistance at the airport (known as "Silla de Ruedas" service) to ensure a smooth transfer.

2. Entry Requirements

• Visa: Canadian citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.

• Check-Mig: You must fill out the Check-Mig form online 24 to 72 hours before your flight. This is a mandatory immigration form.

3. Safety & Comfort

• Pereira: Known as a safe, friendly city. The clinic is located in a modern medical complex (Clínica Central del Eje), ensuring high safety standards.

• Language: The medical team at Regencord is bilingual (English/Spanish). However, having a translation app is helpful for interactions outside the clinic.

Candidacy: Is This Treatment Right for You?

Stem cell therapy is not a "cure-all" for every spinal cord injury. Best results are often seen in patients who have realistic expectations and a commitment to rehab.

Ideal Candidates:

• Injury Type: Incomplete injuries (ASIA B, C, D) typically respond better than Complete (ASIA A) injuries, though improvements in autonomic function (bladder/bowel control) are possible in both.

• Timeframe: While early intervention (first 6-12 months) is ideal, chronic patients (years post-injury) can still see improvements in sensation and muscle tone.

• Health Status: Must be free of active infections and uncontrolled medical conditions.

Outcomes to Expect:

• Motor Function: Potential for improved muscle strength and control.

• Sensory Function: Return of sensation in varying degrees.

• Autonomic Function: Many patients report improved bladder/bowel control and reduced neuropathic pain—changes that significantly improve quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)

Is stem cell therapy for spinal cord injury legal in Colombia?

Yes. Colombia has a robust regulatory framework for regenerative medicine. Clinics like Regencord operate under the supervision of INVIMA (the Colombian equivalent of Health Canada/FDA) and must adhere to strict good manufacturing practices (GMP) for cell processing.

Can stem cells cure paralysis completely?

Currently, no medical treatment can guarantee a complete cure for paralysis. The goal of stem cell therapy is functional restoration—improving independence, sensation, and motor control. Small gains, like regaining hand function or trunk control, can have a massive impact on daily life.

How long does the treatment take?

The Stem Cell Treatment for Spinal Cord Injury Package typically requires a stay of 5 to 7 days. This allows time for pre-procedure testing, the treatment itself (often spread over 1-2 days), and post-procedure observation.

Does Canadian health insurance cover this?

Generally, no. Provincial plans (OHIP, MSP, etc.) do not cover experimental treatments abroad. This is a self-pay procedure. However, medical financing options are often available through third-party providers.

Why use Umbilical Cord stem cells instead of my own?

Regencord uses Wharton’s Jelly MSCs because they are "Day 0" cells—they are young, have not been exposed to aging or toxins, and replicate much faster than a patient's own bone marrow cells. They also have stronger anti-inflammatory properties, which is crucial for SCI.

Is it safe to travel to Colombia with a disability?

Yes. Pereira is increasingly modernizing. Regencord provides full logistical support, including accessible transport. Major hotels are compliant with accessibility standards.

A New Chapter of Possibility

You do not have to accept that "nothing more can be done." With Regencord in Pereira, you have access to a team that believes in the potential of your body to heal.

PlacidWay Medical Tourism is your bridge to this opportunity. We can connect you directly with Dr. Natalia Marulanda Arango to review your medical history and determine if you are a candidate for the Stem Cell Treatment for Spinal Cord Injury Package.

Would you like to schedule a free video consultation with Regencord or receive a formal quote?

Get a Free Quote & Treatment Plan Today