Bone Marrow Transplant in Delhi, India

Bone marrow transplantation, also known as Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT), is a life-saving treatment for various blood disorders and cancers. This procedure involves replacing diseased or damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells, offering hope and a potential cure. At Metro Hospitals, our dedicated team of hematologists and transplant specialists employ the latest research and technology to deliver exceptional, personalized care. We are committed to enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life, providing support and expertise at every stage of the transplant journey.

What is a Bone Marrow Transplant?

Bone marrow is the spongy tissue inside bones that produces red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, essential for oxygen transport, immune defense, and blood clotting. Conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, aplastic anemia, and genetic disorders such as thalassemia and sickle cell anemia can impair bone marrow function. A bone marrow transplant replaces the faulty marrow with healthy cells, enabling the production of vital blood components. This procedure, performed after high-dose chemotherapy or radiation, can lead to remission or cure by re-establishing normal blood cell production.

Conditions Treated with Bone Marrow Transplant

Bone marrow transplants are used to treat a range of serious medical conditions, including:

• Leukemia: Treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).
• Lymphoma: Including Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
• Multiple Myeloma is a type of cancer that affects plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow.
• Aplastic Anemia: A rare condition where the bone marrow fails to produce enough blood cells.
• Inherited Blood Disorders: Such as thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, and severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID).
• Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) are a group of disorders characterized by the production of abnormally formed or dysfunctional blood cells in the bone marrow.
• Solid Tumors: Certain cancers like neuroblastoma or testicular cancer may also be treated with high-dose chemotherapy followed by a transplant.

Types of Bone Marrow Transplant

Metro Hospitals offers several types of bone marrow transplants, tailored to each patient’s needs:

• Autologous Transplant: The patient’s own stem cells are collected and reintroduced after treatment to replenish the bone marrow.
• Allogeneic Transplant: Stem cells from a compatible donor, such as a sibling or unrelated donor, are used to replace the patient’s marrow.
• Umbilical Cord Blood Transplant: Stem cells from cord blood are used when a suitable donor match isn’t available
• Haploidentical Transplant: Utilizes stem cells from a partially matched family member, increasing donor options

Finding a Donor

The success of a bone marrow transplant often depends on finding a suitable donor, which involves matching tissue types to minimize rejection risks.

Types of Donors

• Matched Sibling Donors: Siblings are often the preferred choice due to a higher likelihood of genetic compatibility.
• Matched Unrelated Donors: When family donors are not an option, unrelated donors from registries are considered.
• Haploidentical Donors: Half-matched donors, often family members, expand donor availability.
• Umbilical Cord Blood: Collected at birth and stored in cord blood banks, providing an alternative source of stem cells.

The Matching Process

• Tissue Typing (HLA Typing): Ensures compatibility between donor and recipient.
• Pre-Transplant Evaluations: Assess the suitability of both donor and recipient for the procedure.

Preparation, Procedure, and Post-Operative Care

Preparing for Bone Marrow Transplant

Preparation involves comprehensive medical evaluations and conditioning to ensure the patient is ready for the transplant.

• Medical Evaluations: Include diagnostic tests and assessments to ensure the patient is fit for the transplant.
• Conditioning: High-dose chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy to eradicate diseased cells and suppress the immune system, preparing the body for new stem cells.

During Bone Marrow Transplant

The transplant involves infusing healthy stem cells into the patient’s bloodstream, similar to a blood transfusion.

• Infusion of Stem Cells: Delivered through a central venous catheter or intravenous line.
• Monitoring and Support: Continuous monitoring by a multidisciplinary team to manage complications and ensure safety.

Post-Bone Marrow Transplant Care

• Recovery Phase: Focuses on healing and preventing complications.
• Infection Prevention: Includes protective isolation and medications to prevent infections and manage immune responses.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups to monitor recovery and provide supportive care.

Why Choose Metro Hospitals for Bone Marrow Transplantation?

Metro Hospitals is a leading choice for bone marrow transplants, offering:

• Expertise: Highly experienced hematologists and transplant surgeons.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Advanced technology and infrastructure.
• Multidisciplinary Approach: Comprehensive care from evaluation to follow-up.
• Patient-Centric Care: Focus on comfort and personalized support.
• Research and Innovation: Commitment to advancing treatment options and improving patient outcomes.

Bone Marrow Transplant Risks

While potentially life-saving, bone marrow transplants carry significant risks, including:

• Graft-versus-Host Disease (GVHD): Donor cells attacking recipient tissues.
• Infections: Due to a weakened immune system.
• Graft Failure: Inability of the transplanted cells to engraft.
• Organ Damage: From high-dose chemotherapy or radiation.
• Long-term Side Effects: Such as infertility, hormonal imbalances, and increased cancer risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does recovery take?

Recovery can take several months to a year or more, depending on various factors.

Are peripheral blood stem cell transplants more common?

Yes, due to easier collection and faster engraftment.

Who can be a bone marrow donor?

Anyone who meets health criteria and passes compatibility tests.

How long does the transplant procedure last?

The infusion takes a few hours, but the overall process spans several weeks to months.

What are the costs?

Varies widely; patients should consult their insurance provider and healthcare team.

How to cope with emotional challenges?

Support groups, counselling, and a strong support system can help.

What is GVHD and how is it managed?

GVHD is treated with immunosuppressive medications.

Can it cure cancer?

It can potentially cure or put certain cancers into remission.

How does the immune system recover?

It takes time, with close monitoring and support.

Is there an age restriction?

No strict age limit, but older patients may face higher risks.

Review:

Reviewed by Dr. R.K. Choudhary, Director & Head – Medical Oncology, Haemato Oncology & BMT