Sales of stem cell products in the U.S. reached $16.4 million last year and are expected to surpass $35 million in 2007, according to Robin Young, a medical industry analyst. The products, derived from allogenic or autologous stem/progenitor cells, are used primarily by orthopedic surgeons to stimulate bone growth in cases involving spinal repair, fractures and non-union fractures. More than 200 companies are preparing products for commercialization, including several stem cell therapies expected to enter the market in the coming 24-36 months for use in joint and cartilage repair cases, according to Young.

“Strong sales in the orthopedics market resulted in higher-than-projected numbers in 2006,” he said. “Furthermore, initial patient outcomes were very promising. This has led to surgeon demand for stem cell products rising at an accelerating rate and pushing projections above our original forecast for 2007.”

At the 2nd Annual Stem Cell Summit, set for Feb. 12 and 13 in San Diego, Young will kick off the largest gathering of stem cell company executives, scientists, investors and physicians with the presentation of a 10-year forecast for the use of stem/progenitor cells in cardiology, orthopedics, oncology, urology and other markets.