Here is all you need to know about your transplant journey. The guide is divided into six steps beginning from how to prepare for the journey and include what to expect along the way.
STEP 1: Preparation: The preparation stage starts when the patient arrives at the BMT Centre with medical assessment, guidance, informed consent and other preliminary activities start.
- Beginning of medical Evaluation
- Multidisciplinary treatment Modality
- Central Venous Catheter Insertion
STEP 2: Bone-Marrow/Stem Cells Harvest: The stem cells are collected either from the bone marrow or peripheral blood by apheresis. In an allogeneic transplant, stem cells are collected from the donor and in case of an autologous transplant from the patient itself.
STEP 3: Conditioning: The first step towards transplantation starts with the conditioning stage. In this process, either chemotherapy or radiation therapy or a combination of both is given to the patient. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are given in doses that demolish the bone marrow function and result in the greatest possibility of destroying the disease. Some conditioning treatment may be administered in the outpatient environment depending on the chemotherapy agents and radiation therapy administration schedule, thus possibly shortening the inpatient stay. The preparation, stem cell harvest and conditioning all together comprises of the pre-BMT phase.
STEP 4: Transplant: In this stage, the infusion of donor bone marrow or stem cells takes place right after the conditioning regimen has been finished. This is similar to a blood transfusion. The duration beyond the transplant day is considered as the post BMT phase.
STEP 5: Waiting For Engraftment (New Cell Growth): This stage involves close monitoring, supporting therapy, and complications management while awaiting indications of grafting.
- Close monitoring, support and protection
- Management of complications especially infections
STEP 6: Engraftment And Early Recovery: Signs that fresh bone marrow or stem cells are grafting (growing and developing) can be anticipated in about 2 to 3 weeks after the transplantation. Close monitoring, supporting care will persist and preparation for the patient's return to home will start.
STEP 7: Long-Term Recovery: This stage involves the discharge of the patient from the centre, discussing any continuing clinical problems, and restoring patterns of life. Patients are advised to take regular follow-ups to avoid any long-term complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a Bone Marrow Transplant?
A bone marrow transplant is a therapeutic procedure wherein damaged or unhealthy bone marrow is substituted with healthy bone marrow stem cells. This treatment addresses specific cancers, blood-related conditions, and certain immune disorders. The source of these remedial stem cells might be an external donor or could be harvested and reintroduced from the patient's own body.
2. What are The Different Types of Bone Marrow Transplants?
Different types of bone marrow transplants include:
Autologous transplants utilize the recipient's own stem cells.
Allogeneic transplants rely on stem cells from an external donor, like a close relative.
Syngeneic transplants are exclusive to identical twins, and this method employs stem cells from one twin for the other.
3. What is The Process of Bone Marrow Transplant?
Undergoing a bone marrow transplant involves a multi-stage process:
Preparation: Patients initially receive treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy to eliminate the resident bone marrow cells.
Transplantation: Healthy bone marrow stem cells are then intravenously infused. These cells navigate to the bone marrow and generate new blood cells.
4. What are The Potential Risks and Complications of a Bone Marrow Transplant?
While bone marrow transplant procedure has transformed numerous lives, like any other medical procedure, it involves some risks. Potential complications include infections, bleeding events, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), potential organ damage, and, in rare circumstances, mortality. It's crucial to understand that these risks also depend on individual health profiles, age, and other existing medical conditions.
5. How to Find The Best Bone Marrow Transplant Facility in Mumbai
Selecting a reputable hospital for a bone marrow transplant in Mumbai involves comprehensive research. One should always consider the institution's experience, track record, and patient outcomes. Prospective patients can review the hospital's website, watch patient testimonials, or directly contact the hospital for insights into their bone marrow transplant program.