Jab that may heal foot ulcers faster

INJECTIONS of cells derived from donated human placentas are being tested as a new treatment for foot ulcers and other circulatory problems in the leg.

Scientists in the U.S. believe that the placenta cells, which are injected into the muscle, will help reduce inflammation and encourage tissue repair.

in a new trial run by the pharmaceutical company celgene in 58 centres across the U.S., around 130 patients with diabetic foot ulcers or peripheral artery disease — where the arteries carrying blood from the heart to the legs become furred up — will have two jabs of the placenta cells or a placebo into their leg muscle.

The patients’ progress will be monitored for up to a year.