What
Is The Difference Between A Stem Cell Transplant And Bone
Marrow Transplant?
Until
now, the most common way to transfer stem cells from one person
to another has been through bone marrow transplantation, which
is a complex and risky procedure. Cord blood- a richer source
of stem cells than bone marrow- eliminates many of the problems
associated with bone marrow transplants should your child
or other family member ever need such a treatment in their
lifetime. With your child's own cord blood stem cells readily
available, you do not have to look for a suitable match for
your child, a painful bone marrow extraction procedure will
not be necessary, and the transplant may not be rejected.
What Diseases Can Be Treated/Cured Through The Transplantation
Of Stem Cells?
Stem cells are used today in the treatment of leukemia, breast
cancer, lymphoma, Hodgkin's Disease, Aplastic Anemia, Sickle
Cell Anemia, various other cancers, blood diseases, hereditary/genetic
conditions and immune system disorders. There are approximately
1.4 million new cancer cases each year. As stem cell transplants
become routine, they may be used to fight lung cancer, Multiple
Sclerosis, Lupus, AIDS and many genetic diseases.
Can The Baby's Stem Cells Be Used For A Sibling? Can They
Also Be Used For A Relative Or Friend?
Stem cells from a baby are a perfect match only for the baby
or for an identical twin, and may be a close match for a sibling
(1:4 chance). They can be used for a relative or friend if
their cells closely match the baby's cells.
When
And How Do You Collect The Cord Blood Stem Cells?
The collection process takes place after delivery
when the cord has been separated from your newborn
infant. In no way does it interfere with the
birth of your baby. Your attending physician,
nurse or midwife collects the cord blood utilizing
a sterile kit provided by Cord Partners Blood
Center. The collected cord blood is sealed in
a specially designed package and delivered to
our laboratory for testing and processing. Finally,
the sample is cryogenically stored until it
needs to be retrieved.
How
Safe Is This For My Baby And Me? Will Either
Of Us Feel Any Pain Or Discomfort?
The first priority is the care and well being
of the baby. Stem cell extraction is very safe
because the blood is collected after the cord
has been separated from your baby. Neither you
nor your baby will feel anything since this
procedure is only done after the cord has been
detached. A blood sample will also be drawn
from the mother. |
Learn
More: Cord Blood Storage
FREE
INFORMATION GUIDE
|
|
