I spoke to Acell today and asked about a possible July release (as we’ve already heard) and they confirmed it. They stated that probably next week it will be released for human use. Definately before the end of July.
I again asked them about using it for hair loss. He stated that even though it hasn’t been tested for this purpose, they were confident that it would regenerate tissue and hair removed from the donor area. I asked them if the researchers also felt this way and they stated that the researchers are also confident in this.
Furthermore, I asked if it would require any further FDA regulations and they stated that the ACELL matrix would not need any further approvals. As it stands, it is approved for wound closure (which it would be accomplishing with a HT). Basically, all we need to do would be to find a doctor who is willing to try it and go for it. I felt confident (after speaking with them) that it would work…but I don’t want to get my hopes up (or anyone elses).
I also asked about expense. I asked if it would raise the price of a conventional HT to a great extent. They said to think in terms of hundred of dollars and not thousands. At this point, it is regulated by insurance codes. Even if it is used for cosmetic surgery (where insurance doesn’t cover it) it should not be too expensive…but I guess that is up to the indidual doctor.
I guess the best thing to do after it is released would be to contact as many doctors as possible and alert them to this. The people at ACELL stated that many doctors aren’t knowledgable about their product. That’s what I’m going to do.
I don’t want to set anyone up for disappointment (including myself) but things may be looking good for us.
Take Care,
Bill