Stem cells from a patient’s own bone marrow have successfully been used in a new stroke treatment that infuses them in the brain through the carotid artery to promote recovery.

A yearlong study of 48 stroke patients — led by the Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine — found that those treated with stem cells had better recovery, with no negative side effects, than those undergoing conventional therapy, Fox News reports.

“The primary aim of this first U.S. trial of giving stem cells through the carotid artery was really safety: to establish safety beyond a good measure of doubt,” said Dileep Yavagal, M.D., associate professor of neurology.

“The main concern that needed to be settled was that these cells by themselves could lead to decreased blood flow in the brain because … the concern had been raised that when you give them directly into the carotid artery, they can cause plugging. The study showed that that did not occur.”

Dr. Yavagal explained the stem cells repair areas of the brain damaged by the stroke, acting as anti-inflammatory aids and promoting recovery.