Michael Schumacher to undergo stem cell treatment (Update)

Schumacher as we remember him

UPDATE (GMM) Michael Schumacher will in fact not undergo surgery any time soon, according to the Guardian newspaper.

International reports this week said the F1 legend would have another round of heart cell transfusion therapy carried out by Professor Philippe Menasche, who said the goal was to "regenerate Michael's nervous system".

Neurosurgeon Dr Nicola Acciari was also quoted as saying the former Ferrari and Mercedes driver is suffering from muscle atrophy and osteoporosis.

But the Guardian newspaper says the news about the 51-year-old German is "inaccurate".

"The Schumacher family declined to comment on reports being widely published on Thursday but it is believed they would not consider any such operation during the coronavirus outbreak," said journalist Giles Richards.

"It is understood that while surgery may take place at some point it will not occur while the health risks attached to coronavirus remain," he added.

06/10/20 (GMM) Michael Schumacher is set to undergo an operation, according to the Italian source Contro Copertina.

Cardiac expert professor Philippe Menasche, who reportedly treated the F1 legend last year as well, is said to be in charge of another round of heart cell transfusion.

"The goal is to regenerate Michael's nervous system," he is quoted as saying.

Neurosurgeon Dr Nicola Acciari said the former Ferrari and Mercedes driver is suffering from muscle atrophy and osteoporosis.

"Over the past 20 years, science has made enormous progress in the field of stem cell treatment," he said. "But that doesn't change the fact that we still know little about the human brain.

"We are not able to say what results it (the treatment) will bring."

Schumacher, 51, suffered serious brain injuries in a late 2013 skiing fall.