Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) also referred as
Stem Cell Transplantation has gained a lot of prominence in the past two
decades. Many experts consider it to be a game changer in the treatment
approach for Hematological Malignancies. BMT is done by deriving the
multipotent hematopoietic stem cells from the Bone Marrow to replace the
diseased bone marrow. In case of SCT, the stem cells may be derived from
peripheral blood or umbilical cord blood, not just limited to the bone marrow.
Bone Marrow has the key role of producing healthy blood cells that are
responsible for multiple functions that include building the body’s immune
system. During this sophisticated procedure, the damaged or dysfunctional bone
marrow is replaced with a healthy marrow by grafting healthy stem cells.
BMT is an approved mode of treatment in India. Stem Cell
Transplant centers in India follow the global standards and protocols. It is
known to be effective in the management and treatment of ailments like Multiple
Myeloma, Acute leukemia and Hodgkin's lymphoma. There are two basic types of
BMT – Autologous and Allogenic. In case of Autologous transplant, the stem
cells are derived from the patient’s own body where as the donor is involved in
an Allogenic transplant. There are known risks involved in both the types of
transplant. However, the higher risk is associated with Allogenic transplant
with graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and related complications. The success
rate of these procedures is pretty good and patients are always briefed about
all the possible complications before the transplant procedure.
Not all super specialty or multi-specialty
hospitals may have the infrastructure and facilities to offer BMT and similar
advanced treatments. Even many Cancer Specialties are not fully equipped with
all the necessary facilities. BMT is a complex procedure which has to be
carried out in a controlled environment; multiple factors determine its
outcome. There are many complications and microbial infections that have to be
simultaneously handled with advanced medications. There are also chemotherapy
or immunotherapy medications given before and after the procedure. Careful
monitoring is important and close attention would be necessary by the
paramedical professionals. Given such levels of complexity and sophistication,
your choice of BMT center plays a very important role in the treatment
outcomes.
While many BMT experts are Hematologists, not all
Hematologists are BMT experts. The success or failure of BMT procedure is
directly attributed to the BMT Physician or consultant. The anticipation is
always high when it comes to such advanced treatments. However, careful
assessment of the patient can help determining the suitability. Not all
patients may be candidates for BMT and it is the role of BMT Physician to
determine the same. Hands on experience and expertise are always desirable when
positive outcome is the only objective.
Kenosis Health can assist patients with the
feedback based on certain well known parameters regarding their choice of
Hospital and Physician when it comes to Bone Marrow Transplantation for Blood
Cancer Treatment. Reach us for more insights.