Stem cell injections save Tupou

Career saved: Cronulla Shark Anthony Tupou. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: The Daily Telegraph

A "MIRACLE" cutting-edge stem cell operation could have saved Sharks forward Anthony Tupou's career.

It sounds like something from the future, but it has the potential to transform the careers of countless NRL players right now.

Former Aussie Test second-rower Tupou became one of the first NRL players to undergo the experimental Regeneus HiQ cell procedure in October and the 28-year-old is now feeling fitter than he has in three years.

Play The Telegraph Sportsbet.com.au Supercoach 2012

The procedure involves stem cells being extracted from fat tissue around the belly button or back before it is injected into a damaged joint or tissue. The procedure accelerates the regeneration of damaged cartilage and can takes just 3-4 hours.

With Tupou off contract at the end of this season, he knows only too well the procedure has likely saved him from rugby league's scrap heap.

So severe were the recurring problems in his right knee, Tupou was unable to train at all some weeks because of the pain and swelling.

Play Kennards Hire NRL Tipping 2012 

As Sharks coach Shane Flanagan said: "He was headed for retirement. There were weeks when he couldn't train at all.

"To be fair he was far from his best. Last year he limped around. He didn't enjoy playing footy because all he could think about was his knee.

"I've never seen him look better (now). He's stronger, more powerful than ever and he's trimmed down a bit."

Sharks doctor David Giveny said his club was blown away by how successful the procedure has been, even after it forced Tupou to spend the first three months following the surgery away from the training field.

Giveny believes the stem cell operation could easily become common practice in the NRL within five years.

Tupou isn't yet back to peak match fitness, but already believes the gamble has payed off.

"I don't feel it at all," Tupou said. "I'm ready to go. I feel a lot better."

Wests Tigers doctor Donald Kuah oversaw the procedure, which has made it possible for Tupou to run out against the Tigers at Leichhardt on Sunday. 

Follow @Telegraph_Sport on Twitter and like Telegraph Sport on Facebook

Here is the original post:
Stem cell injections save Tupou