Questions to Dr. Huang

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1. There is an intake form that should be filled out upon which the selection is based. How does this selection work? Who qualifies for a stem cell transplantation?

Dr. Huang wants to help and treat as many patients as possible. Aside from the intake form he also likes to have a report from the treating doctor, in which more information is disclosed about the patient's diagnosis. Using the form and possible report, the selections are made. Besides this there is a waiting list concerning the OEC's (Olfactory Ensheathing cells). He once again mentioned that he doesn't transplant stem cells but OEC's. The difference between the two is, however, lost on me, said Dr. Huang.

2. Is it possible that even after a 2nd operation the patient improves?

Dr. Huang and his team have even then seen improvements.

3. Do patients with vocal problems qualify?

Of course. He referred to the videos he had shown during the presentation. The voice would improve.

4. Can a pregnant woman use the cells from her fetus?

In Australia there are doctors who use this method, but there are no results known about this yet. He himself doesn't know either whether this method would work.

5. Why were anabolic steroids added to the drip after the operation?

It took quite a while before Dr. Huang understood or wanted to understand this term. Moderator Pol Geerts, professor Robberecht and the interpreters tried their best to explain what it entailed. After about three minutes it seemed to become clear. He explained that the patient doesn't always react well to certain medicine and that they no longer use them now.

6. How would he like to improve his method in the meantime?

Dr. Huang didn't see an immediate solution. Perhaps it would work better with stem cells from the spine. This transplantation takes longer, but could perhaps grant a longer stability during the disease process. Furthermore he hopes to influence the immune system by being able to have a better match between the cells of the donor and the receiver.