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UPDATE: Texas Board Approves Stem Cell Therapy Rules

 

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — The Texas Medical Board has approved new rules on experimental stem cell therapies such as the one Gov. Rick Perry underwent during back surgery last year.

The rules require patients to give their consent and a review board must approve the procedure before using adult stem cells.

Supporters say establishing formal rules will lead to more medical innovation. Critics warned that the rules don't provide enough protection for patients and could lead to an explosion of doctors promoting unproven, expensive treatments.

Perry had his own stem cells injected into his back.

The Food and Drug Administration hasn't approved using adult stem cells to help people heal from surgery, but experimentation is common. Some scientists tout the possible benefits, including treatment for heart disease, diabetes and some cancers.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.