Although it's classified as a bone marrow transplant we are technically doing a peripheral blood stem cell transplant. This should give you a better idea of what's going on:
How are PBSCs obtained for transplantation?
The stem cells used in PBSCT come from the bloodstream of a matched donor. A process called apheresis or leukapheresis is used to obtain PBSCs for transplantation. For 4 or 5 days before apheresis, the donor may be given a medication to increase the number of stem cells released into the bloodstream. In apheresis, blood is removed through a large vein in the arm or a central venous catheter (a flexible tube that is placed in a large vein in the neck, chest, or groin area). The blood goes through a machine that removes the stem cells. The blood is then returned to the donor and the collected cells are stored. Apheresis typically takes 4 to 6 hours. The stem cells are then frozen until they are given to the recipient.
How does the patient receive the stem cells during the transplant?
After being treated with high-dose chemotherapy drugs and/or radiation, the patient receives the stem cells through an intravenous (IV) line just like a blood transfusion. This part of the transplant takes 1 to 5 hours.
What happens after the stem cells have been transplanted to the patient?
After entering the bloodstream, the stem cells travel to the bone marrow, where they begin to produce new white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets in a process known as “engraftment.” Engraftment usually occurs within about 2 to 4 weeks after transplantation. Doctors monitor it by checking blood counts on a frequent basis. Doctors evaluate the results of various blood tests to confirm that new blood cells are being produced.
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