Aim. This study reviews the various studies conducted about using stem cells in the treatment of peripheral arterial disorders.

Background. Arterial disorders have affected approximately 8 to 12 million individuals in the united states and is associated with significant mortality morbidity and mortality. Critical limb ischemia (CLI) is the end stage of lower extremity peripheral arterial disease. The mainstay of therapy for severe ischemia is endovascular revascularization with the aim of improving blood flow to the affected limb. However, for 20 to 30 percent of patients with CLI that are not considered for endovascular revascularization stem cell therapy may be useful.

Method. In this review, after the searching out databases and electronic resources the latest and most relevant studies about the use of stem cell therapy were considered.

Findings. The studies have shown that stem cell therapy is useful for peripheral arterial disorders, especially for those patients who are not candidate for surgical treatment. It has been found that this method is more effective for patients with Buerger's disease than those with peripheral arterial disorders, and that intramuscular injection method is preferred to intra-arterial injection method. It has been shown that using stem cells derived from bone marrow is more effective and less costly than stem cells derived from peripheral blood. This method is not associated with significant side effects and well tolerated by patient.

Conclusion. Stem cell therapy is an effective and promising treatment strategy, especially in patients who are not candidate for endovascular surgery.