Hospitalisation when receiving stem cells.?

Question

If someone was receiving stem cell treatment how long would they look at being in hospital for?

Answer 1

I did my stem cell transplant last summer for leukemia.  I was in the hospital for 42 days, and had daily out patient care for about the next 6 weeks.  Then I had apts twice a week.  A year later, I have to see a doc about once a month, not counting any issues.

You can read brief details about the transplant at http://www.marrow.org

And feel free to email me with any questions

Answer 2

During the first few days after transplantation, the reinfused stem cells migrate to the bone marrow and begin the process of producing replacement blood cells, a process called engraftment. The stem cells start to produce new blood cells within 12 to 15 days following infusion. Colony-stimulating factors may be administered during this time to stimulate the process of blood cell production.

Until engraftment is complete, a transplant recipient is susceptible to infection, anaemia, and bleeding caused by low blood cell counts. Therefore, special precautions are necessary during recovery. Patients may be given red blood cell and platelet transfusions during the recovery period to help prevent anaemia and bleeding. For the first 2-4 weeks after the transplant, patients are very susceptible to developing infections. This is because the effects of the high-dose chemotherapy and the loss of blood cells weaken the body's immune system. Antibiotics are often prescribed to help prevent infection.

The doctors, nurses, and other members of the healthcare team will do everything possible to ensure a successful recovery. However, patients and their family or caregivers are also active participants in the recovery process. Patients are asked to come in for frequent check-ups and tests during the early recovery period, which typically lasts about 6 weeks.