Updated: Oct 20
Medically reviewed by ChinaCureLink Team
Table of Content
Introduction
Patients researching heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) may encounter human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cell (UC-MSC) therapy as an emerging treatment option. In China, this therapy is available through the Hainan Lecheng supervised biomedical-technology access pathway. This guide explains what the treatment is, who may be considered, its estimated cost, and what international patients should know before pursuing it.
Key Takeaways |
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What Is Human UC-MSC Therapy?
Human UC-MSC therapy uses mesenchymal stem cells derived from umbilical cord tissue. The treatment method is intravenous reinfusion, meaning the cells are administered through an intravenous route rather than directly into the heart.
For patients with HFrEF, the treatment is being used within a supervised biomedical-technology access pathway. The available treatment information does not establish individual treatment outcomes, and patients should discuss the potential benefits, risks, alternatives, and evidence with a qualified cardiologist.
The treatment course consists of three sessions, administered once a week.
Is Human UC-MSC Stem Cell Therapy for HFrEF Available in China?
Yes. human UC-MSC stem cell therapy for HFrEF in China is available through the Hainan Lecheng biomedical-technology access pathway. It is one of the first biomedical technologies approved through the Lecheng pathway.
This is a specific medical-access pathway rather than evidence of nationwide approval for the therapy throughout China. Patients considering treatment should therefore confirm current access, medical eligibility, and scheduling directly with the treating hospital.
Where Is the Treatment Offered?
The treatment is offered at Hainan Haikong Le City Hospital (West China Le City Hospital of Sichuan University).
Technical support is provided by Shanghai Tongjin Stem Cell Technology Co., Ltd. / Hainan Stem Cell Engineering Center.
The treatment method is intravenous reinfusion of umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs).
Who May Be Eligible?
Eligibility criteria are LVEF ≤40% and NYHA functional class II–IV.
The attending physician assesses eligibility through a comprehensive evaluation that includes cardiac function, imaging, and the patient's overall clinical condition.
These criteria describe the general access requirements and do not determine whether a particular patient is eligible. Final eligibility is determined by the treating medical team after a face-to-face consultation and review of the patient's medical records.
How Much Does It Cost?
The estimated cost is ¥60,000 (approximately US$8,900) per session. The treatment is administered once a week for three sessions per course, making the estimated treatment-course cost ¥180,000 (approximately US$26,800).
The USD figures use an exchange-rate basis of approximately ¥6.72 per US$1.
The stated treatment price does not necessarily include consultation, hospitalization, translation or coordination, or travel. Confirm final pricing and the full scope of services directly with the hospital before making travel arrangements.
Why International Patients May Consider This Option
For some international patients with HFrEF who meet the stated clinical criteria, China's Lecheng access pathway may provide another treatment option to discuss with a specialist.
The main practical consideration is access: the therapy is available through a designated hospital and supervised biomedical-technology pathway rather than as a nationwide treatment option. Patients should evaluate the treatment based on their individual medical history, current heart-failure management, clinical evidence, potential risks, alternatives, and the physician's assessment.
How ChinaCureLink Can Help Patients Access This Treatment
We help international patients explore available treatment options and facilitate communication with appropriate medical specialists. Patients should discuss potential benefits, risks, eligibility, and alternatives directly with qualified physicians. ChinaCureLink does not represent or endorse the treatment technology, manufacturer, or hospital.
Case review: We collect relevant medical history and COPD-management records to help determine whether a case is appropriate for physician review.
Hospital coordination: We help connect patients with the treating team at 2-3 Eligible Hospitals in for an initial assessment.
Online consultation before travel: Patients can discuss potential eligibility, the procedure, and expected next steps with the medical team remotely before committing to international travel.
Coordination support: Depending on the case, this can include translation assistance, appointment scheduling, and logistics coordination.
Considering human UC-MSC therapy for HFrEF in China?
Before planning travel, speak with a qualified specialist to determine whether the treatment is appropriate for your condition and whether you meet the medical eligibility requirements. ChinaCureLink can help international patients arrange a specialist review and explore the treatment pathway in China.
Request a Medical Review / Speak With a Specialist
Get a Second Opinion Before Fly to China
For suitable cases, ChinaCureLink can then coordinate an online consultation with the specialist to discuss the technical treatment details directly. The purpose is to help the patient understand which treatment option and which specialist center may be most appropriate before making an international treatment decision.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is UC-MSC therapy for HFrEF available in China?
Yes. It is available through the Hainan Lecheng biomedical-technology access pathway at Hainan Haikong Le City Hospital. This pathway does not mean the therapy has nationwide approval in China.
How much does UC-MSC therapy for HFrEF cost in China?
The estimated cost is ¥60,000 (approximately US$8,900) per session. Three weekly sessions constitute one course, with an estimated treatment-course cost of ¥180,000 (approximately US$26,800). Confirm final pricing with the hospital.
Who may qualify for UC-MSC therapy for HFrEF?
The stated eligibility criteria are LVEF ≤40% and NYHA functional class II–IV. The attending physician also evaluates cardiac function, imaging, and overall clinical condition before determining eligibility.
How is umbilical cord-derived MSC therapy administered?
The treatment uses intravenous reinfusion of umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells. One course consists of three sessions administered once a week.
About ChinaCureLink
ChinaCureLink helps patients across the world access the best cancer treatment at China's top hospitals, without the delays, language barriers, and administrative confusion that typically come with seeking care abroad.
We connect patients directly with China's top cancer hospitals, ensuring that from the first case submission through to treatment and follow-up, every step is guided, translated, and coordinated by a team experienced in cross-border patient care.
ChinaCureLink is proudly affiliated with Medebound HEALTH — founded by US physicians, with over 10 years of experience and more than 3,000 patients served worldwide, Medebound HEALTH is recognized by Forbes and it is one of the most trusted patient cross-border concierge service company across North America and the Asia Pacific.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical or financial advice. Treatment eligibility, protocols, and costs vary by individual case — confirm specifics with a coordinator and treating physician before making any decisions.
