Haematology and Bone Marrow Transplant

Bone Marrow Transplant Surgery

A bone marrow transplant, also known as a stem cell transplant or a haematopoietic stem cell transplant, is a non-surgical method used to replenish damaged or destroyed bone marrow with healthy bone marrow stem cells. During the procedure, stem cells are introduced into the patient's bloodstream using a central venous catheter, similar to a blood transfusion process. The replacement cells can come from the patient's own body or a donor. This transplantation method effectively treats various blood and immune system disorders that impact the bone marrow, such as leukaemia, myeloma, and lymphoma.

At CARE CHL Hospitals, Indore, the Department of Haematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation specialises in treating complex blood, lymph node, and bone marrow diseases. Patients receive comprehensive care under one roof, including diagnosis and treatment for numerous blood conditions. Our fully stocked blood bank, dedicated bone marrow transplantation unit, and state-of-the-art haematology lab set us apart from competitors.

Types of Bone Marrow Transplant offered at CARE CHL Hospitals, Indore

• Autologous bone marrow (stem cell) transplant: An autologous bone marrow transplant involves replacing sick or damaged bone marrow with the patient's own healthy blood stem cells. Unlike using donor stem cells, employing the patient's own stem cells in a bone marrow transplant has the significant advantage of avoiding any compatibility issues between the donor cells and the patient's own cells.
• Allogeneic transplant: An allogeneic bone marrow (stem cell) transplant replaces the damaged bone marrow using healthy blood stem cells from a donor.

Conditions for which a Bone Marrow Transplant is advised

Many different haematological cancers are treated at our haematology department. We utilise advanced equipment and ensure that treatments are offered in reasonably priced packages. We also manage a variety of non-cancerous conditions, including:

• Aplastic Anaemia and other bone marrow failure syndromes - These fatal conditions are characterised by the bone marrow's inability to produce enough blood components to meet patients' needs. For individuals with these conditions, a prompt allogeneic stem cell transplantation might be a life-saving option.
• Thalassemia Major - This genetic condition, caused by hereditary haemoglobin deficiency, requires patients to undergo frequent blood transfusions starting in infancy. Many thalassemia patients can achieve a cure through early-life allogeneic stem cell transplantation.
• Sickle Cell Anaemia - Another hereditary haemoglobin condition that leads to anaemia, painful episodes, strokes, and organ failure. The majority of these individuals can find a cure through allogeneic stem cell transplantation.

A stem cell transplant can be life-saving for various diseases, including congenital immune deficiency syndromes, metabolic inborn errors of metabolism, and more. Transplants are also performed for cancerous diseases, such as:

• Acute Myeloid Leukaemia - Every year, we care for numerous individuals with acute myeloid leukaemia. Our treatment approach is tailored to the patient's age and other relevant factors.
• Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia - We treat acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in both adults and children. Treatment plans are determined based on the severity of the illness.
• Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia - Our team provides top-quality care for patients with chronic myeloid leukaemia. Our innovative haematology laboratories conduct precise molecular studies to ensure accurate diagnoses.
• Acute Promyelocytic Leukaemia - We offer cost-effective treatment solutions for acute promyelocytic leukaemia. Our ongoing research aims to improve the outcomes of our clinical studies.
• Lymphoma and Myeloma - Our expertise extends beyond various forms of leukaemia to encompass numerous types of lymphoma and myeloma. We meticulously analyse the specific subtypes, facilitated by our access to a wide range of testing.

What to anticipate during a Bone Marrow Transplant?

The bone marrow transplant will be conducted following a conditioning procedure that includes chemotherapy and possibly radiation. The purpose of conditioning is to eliminate cancer cells, suppress the immune system, and prepare the body for the introduction of fresh stem cells. These stem cells are infused into the body during the bone marrow transplant process. Once transplanted, these stem cells migrate to the bone marrow, where they initiate the production of new blood cells. Your blood count can increase after a month or more of continuous cell generation.

If the blood stem cells have been preserved through freezing and thawing before being administered to the patient, appropriate medication will be provided to mitigate potential adverse effects arising from the preservatives used during this process.

What to anticipate after a Bone Marrow Transplant?

New stem cells immediately go to the bone marrow upon entering the body to start producing new blood cells. The time it takes for the blood count to normalise in certain people might be over a month. After the surgery, patients might need to stay in the hospital for a week or more to receive intensive monitoring. Following a bone marrow transplant, they will be closely monitored by the cancer care team for several days, weeks, and months. 

Regular blood tests will be conducted, and the doctor will assist in managing any risks that may arise. A bone marrow transplant patient is more vulnerable to infection and other problems during the days and weeks immediately following the surgery, so it's crucial to eat well, exercise, and stay fit during this time.

Side effects after Bone Marrow Transplant

The following are transplant-related side effects brought on by the chemotherapy and radiotherapy used during transplants:

• Nausea, Vomiting, Loss of Appetite
• Hair Loss
• Mouth Ulcers
• Bleeding
• Fever
• Temporary or Permanent Fertility
• Relapse

Facilities provided at CARE CHL Hospitals, Indore

The Department of Haematology and Bone Marrow Transplant provides access to the following facilities:

• Bone Marrow Biopsy
• Stem Cell Harvesting
• Blood Transfusion
• Advanced Imaging Techniques
• Blood Test
• Clotting Screens
• Diagnostic Molecular Techniques

Why Choose CARE CHL Hospitals?

Our department has successfully conducted the highest number of Bone Marrow Transplants as of September 2016 in Madhya Pradesh. Additionally, the centre provides painless chemo treatment through PICC access and a daycare facility for chemo sessions and blood transfusion. To meet the highest level of efficacy, we offer state-of-the-art cancer treatment and BMT services as we have hepa filter neutropenic isolation rooms with an in-house stem cell apheresis facility.