![]() This high-dose chemotherapy is effective at killing cancer cells, but also will destroy the patient’s bone marrow. Before the transplant is scheduled to take place, the patient begins conditioning therapy. The stem cells, which are harvested from the patient’s bone marrow and/or bloodstream, are typically collected when the cancer is in remission or has stabilized. In an autologous transplant, the bone marrow transplant donor is also the recipient. Autologous transplantsĪn autologous stem cell transplant may be used to treat several types of blood cancer. There are three types of blood and bone marrow transplants: autologous, in which the stem cells are taken from the patient’s own blood allogeneic, in which the stem cells are collected from a donor and syngeneic, in which the stem cells are obtained from an identical twin. Nick, Stem Cell Transplant Survivor Schedule an Appointment What are the types of bone marrow transplants? Once the conditioning process is complete, the patient will be ready to receive the stem cell transplant. Transplant conditioning can take several days, although the duration and dosages can vary depending on factors unique to the patient. Typically, this process involves a course of high-dose chemotherapy and sometimes radiation therapy to prepare the patient’s body for the transplant, suppress his or her immune system and destroy any residual cancer cells. Next, a catheter (central line) may be inserted into a vein in the patient’s chest, where it will remain for the duration of the treatment.Īfter these initial steps are completed, the patient will begin conditioning therapy. First, a series of tests must be administered to determine if the patient is healthy enough to undergo the transplant, which is a lengthy process that can be both physically and emotionally taxing. Several steps must be taken to prepare the patient for a bone marrow transplant. How do you prepare for a bone marrow transplant? Some continue to remember and celebrate the day long into the future, much like a second birthday. For many patients, the treatment is a significant step that holds tremendous meaning. In fact, the bone marrow transplant procedure is very similar to receiving blood or medication through an intravenous (IV) catheter or tube. The patient remains awake throughout the entire process, and it is not uncomfortable. Many prospective patients understandably wonder: Does a bone marrow transplant hurt? In most cases, though, there is no bone marrow transplant pain. When it’s time for the transplant, the patient receives the donated cells through an intravenous (IV) catheter, or tube. ![]() ![]() The healthy cells for transplantation have been previously collected from the patient or a donor that has been screened and determined to be an appropriate match. How does a bone marrow transplant work?Ī bone marrow transplant takes healthy blood-forming cells from a donor and infuses those cells into the patient’s bloodstream, where the cells may begin to grow and produce healthy red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. In these instances, a bone marrow transplant (BMT) may be necessary. In other cases, a cancer patient’s chemotherapy or radiation treatment may damage or destroy healthy bone marrow so that it no longer generates the blood cells the patient needs. Sometimes, diseases such as cancer can affect the bone marrow, preventing it from making these essential cells. As such, healthy bone marrow is essential to sustain life. A spongy tissue found in the center (medullary cavities) of bones, bone marrow produces blood stem cells that mature into red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. ![]()
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