Bone Marrow Transplant Treatment

What is Bone Marrow Transplant?

Bone marrow is a spongy tissue in the hollow centres of a person's long bones. These immature cells further get mature into red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Red blood cell's role is to carry oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Platelets help in control bleeding by forming clots.  Stem cells constantly get divided and produce new cells. Stem cells rapidly get multiplied to make millions of blood cells each day. Blood cells have a limited lifespan (around 100-120 days for red blood cells) and get constantly being replaced. The production of healthy stem cells is important. Healthy bone marrow releases blood cells into the bloodstream when they are mature and whenever required. Without the help of bone marrow, our bodies could not produce the white cells we need to fight infection, the red blood cells we need to carry oxygen, and the platelets we need to stop bleeding. Some illnesses as well as treatments can destroy the bone marrow. This leaves the person unable to make the new blood cells which are needed to fight infection and recover. In some cases, the best treatment is a transplant of bone marrow donated by other person.

Why is a bone marrow transplant needed?

They are performed when a person's marrow gets destroyed by a disease or isn't healthy enough to function properly.
A bone marrow transplant can be used to:

• Replace diseased, non-functioning bone marrow with healthy and functioning bone marrow for conditions such as leukemia, aplastic anemia, and sickle cell anemia.
• Regenerate a new immune system that will fight existing or residual leukemia or other cancers not killed by the chemotherapy or radiation that are used in the transplant. 
• Replace the bone marrow and restore its normal function after high doses of chemotherapy and/or radiation are given for treating a malignancy.
• Replace bone marrow with genetically healthy and functioning bone marrow to prevent further damage from a genetic disease process.

What does the operation involve?

In a transplant operation, the person receiving the marrow is treated with a high dose of chemotherapy or radiotherapy to destroy their diseased cells. The donor's bone 
marrow cells are then injected into a vein, just like blood transfusion. The donor marrow finds the bones and settles into the existing cavities. Donating bone marrow can save other 
person's life. Bone marrow donors are matched with the people who need a transplant to survive. The donor must have same tissue type as the recipient. Doctors can check a person's 
tissue type with a simple blood test.

Also read :- Best Cancer Hospitals in India

What complications can happen during bone marrow transplant treatment in India 

Bone marrow transplantation is a complicated procedure and may be risky. Infections, bleeding, anemia, organ complications and infertility are potential complications as are the possibility of recurrence of the underlying disease or graft-versus-host disease following an allogeneic transplant.

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Bone Marrow Transplant In India 

Blood cells including platelets, leukocytes (WBC), and erythrocytes (RBC) are produced in bone marrow. The body cannot create healthy blood cells from a sick or injured bone marrow, which prevents the body from functioning normally and can result in more serious issues.

Need for Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant

When a person's bone marrow isn't working properly, they need a bone marrow transplant. Numerous conditions as well as the side effects of radiation or chemotherapy for cancer, might contribute to this. Bone marrow transplants are an option when all other treatments have failed. 

Bone marrow transplant is a curative treatment for various diseases:

• Thalassemia & Sickle cell disease.
• Aplastic anemia.
• Leukemia (ALL, AML, CML, CLL).
• Multiple myeloma.
• High grade lymphomas.
• Neuroblastoma.
• Wilm’s tumor.
• High grade sarcomas.

Types of Bone marrow transplant

Autologous bone marrow transplant:

• The word "auto" refers to "self," meaning that the patient's removed stem cells are stored and reinjected into the body. This method involves removing the patient's own healthy stem cells using a technique known as apheresis. Rescue transplant is another term for the procedure.

Allogeneic Transplant:

• During this process, stem cells are harvested from a donor to create bone marrow. A family member or an unrelated third party may be the donor. If the recipient's and donor's bone marrow tissues are compatible, the surgery can proceed.

Umbilical cord transplant: 

• This procedure involves taking stem cells right after delivery from the umbilical cord of a newborn. After being gathered, these stem cells are kept for further use. However, this kind of transplant recovery may take longer due to the reduced quantity of stem cells.

Bone marrow transplant for Sickle Cell Anemia: the only treatment for this disease

A genetic blood condition known as sickle cell anemia results in blood cells that are sticky, rigid, and shaped like a sickle, or "C." Consequently, cells may get lodged in the blood vessels during their passage, obstructing the blood's ability to circulate throughout the body. BMT is the only treatment that can cure sickle cell disease.However, approximately 20–30% of people who require it have a matching sibling who can give bone marrow on their behalf.  BMT has been used to treat and cure sickle cell disease in children over the past 20 years. Our BMT team and Sickle Cell team work closely together. Our knowledge of the sickle cell program and the BMT division enables us to help parents make this challenging choice.

Stem cell transplant in India for International Patients

The availability of qualified physicians and advancements in medical technology are the main reasons behind the rise in bone marrow transplants in India. Some of the top bone marrow transplant facilities in India feature state-of-the-art equipment and a group of highly skilled medical professionals committed to giving patients the best care possible. In India, the success rate for bone marrow transplants varies from 60% to 85%. For patients seeking a bone marrow transplant, India is an excellent option because of its inexpensive pricing and good success rates.

Bone marrow biopsy in India: A diagnostic test before undergoing Bone Marrow Transplant

A bone marrow biopsy involves a physician taking a sample of the patient's bone marrow to check the health of the tissue and blood cell production. Anemia, clotting issues, leukemia, multiple myeloma and some cancers can be diagnosed with the use of a bone marrow biopsy. Determining whether a donor is a suitable candidate for an allogeneic stem cell transplant also can be done by a bone marrow biopsy. 

Bone marrow Transplant Procedure in India

Before receiving a bone marrow transplant in India, there are a few things you should do. It is essential to complete these stages prior to beginning the transplant process itself.

• Pre-transplant Procedure: To ascertain the kind of bone marrow you need, you must first have a bone marrow test. To make sure you are a good candidate for the surgery, your doctor will do a complete evaluation of your medical history in addition to a physical examination. There are a few days left in this phase.
• Conditioning step: To either kill the cancer cells or suppress the immune system, you will receive a dose of radiation, chemotherapy, or both during this step. By taking this procedure, the bone marrow will be prepared to receive the freshly transplanted healthy stem cells.
• Bone marrow transplantation: In the upper chest, a central venous catheter is inserted. This allows the body to receive an injection of a healthy stem cell. The tube allows the fluid that contains healthy stem cells to enter the heart directly.

Following that, the body begins to multiply these healthy stem cells, eventually forming bone marrow. After that, the bone marrow starts to develop and make stem cells. It is usually not necessary to do surgery.

Recovery Process

The recovery process after a bone marrow transplant is a gradual process involving hospital stays, monitoring for infection and graft-versus-host disease, and rebuilding the immune system. Patients are at increased risk of infections during this time. Medications are needed to suppress the immune system and prevent GVHD. Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for healing. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor progress, manage complications, and adjust medications.

What are the Factors Affecting Bone marrow transplants Cost?

The following are the factors that affect bone marrow replacement cost in India:

• Pre-Evaluation Cost - Multiple tests are performed before the transplant to understand the patient's vital statistics. These reports help the doctors use these statistics to determine if a patient is ready for surgery or not.
• Cost of Chemotherapy - Conditions like leukaemia may require the patient to undergo a few cycles of chemotherapy before receiving a bone marrow transplant. The expense of treating that particular condition as a whole increases due to the chemotherapy regimen.
• Type of Hospital - Additionally, bone marrow transplant expenses vary from hospital to hospital and from one city to another. Whether a person chooses a multispecialty hospital, clinic, or bone marrow transplant facility usually affects the overall bone marrow treatment cost. The price also differs across cities.
• Age of the Patients - Another element that affects the bone marrow transplant price is the patient's age. Patients younger than 20 or small kids typically incur higher costs. This is because they need more attention and testing, and their overall length of hospitalisation is longer.

Best hospitals for bone marrow transplant in India

For patients receiving this crucial therapy, the top bone marrow transplant facilities in India offer top-notch medical attention, cutting-edge equipment, and comprehensive services. Among the best hospitals in India for bone marrow transplantation, patients can anticipate a successful course of therapy from pre-transplant evaluations to post-transplant recuperation.

• Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
• Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon
• Medanta- The Medicity, Gurgaon
• Apollo Hospital, New Delhi

Best surgeons for Bone Marrow Transplant in India

• Dr. Rahul Bhargava
• Dr. Gaurav Dixit
• Dr. Ashok Kumar Vaid
• Dr. Gaurav Kharya
• Dr. Vikas Dua (Pediatric BMT Specialist)
• Dr. Satya Prakash Yadav (Pediatric BMT Specialist)

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Case Study of our Patients Treated for Bone Marrow Transplant in India

Bone marrow transplant for the treatment of Sickle Cell Anaemia successfully managed and treated with the help of GetWellGo

• Patient name: Chinedu Okafor
• Age: 7 years old
• Gender: Male
• Country of Origin: Nigeria
• Doctor: Dr. Vikas Dua
• Hospital: Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram
• Treatment: Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) via a matched sibling donor for Sickle Cell Anaemia

The story of 7 year old Chinedu Okafor from Nigeria who had courageously fought against the disease of sickle cell anaemia from infancy. At 9 months, Chinedu was diagnosed with the condition and his childhood was filled with medicines and hospital visits, painful crises and growing health problems. He was prescribed with hydroxyurea and folic acid from the age of 4 in Nigeria. He was able to control his condition for a while but it was difficult to manage it for longer over time. As Chinedu got older, he got more frequent painful attacks and required more blood transfusions. His parents were worried about his health and prospects and started to look into non-traditional methods of treatment for him other than disease management. The family approached the trusted medical travel assistance company GetWellGo and after extensive research and consultation explored the options of specialised treatment in India. GetWellGo assisted the family in all their medical travel needs from Nigeria to India making it more organised and less stressful for them. Chinedu was admitted to Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram where he was assessed by Dr. Vikas Dua, renowned paediatric haematologist and bone marrow transplant specialist. The detailed medical evaluation was done and the medical team discussed the option of bone marrow transplantation as a treatment modality for his sickle cell anaemia.

Identifying a suitable donor was one of the most crucial steps prior to transplantation. Chinedu has been tested with his three siblings regarding HLA match. Their good news was that Amarachi Okafor, 14, was a good HLA match for him. The transplant team continued with the bone marrow transplant using Amarachi as Chinedu's 'matched' sibling donor. The treatment journey was extremely courageous, patient and full of great faith for the family. The act of Amarachi offering to give herself as a donor to her younger brother Chinedu was an important step in his path to a healthier life. The bone marrow transplant went well. Chinedu was provided with proper medical attention and follow up post procedure and the family was well supported throughout the recovery.

Chinedu is now able to live a healthy, active life 3 years after his transplant. The child who had previously suffered from repeated painful crises and frequent blood transfusions is now able to live a very different life in childhood. He can play, learn, spend time with his family and look forward to the future with hope. It's a change for his parents. After years of dealing with sickle cell anaemia, the family from Nigeria eventually made their way to India, where they received specialist medical treatment and a treatment pathway that helped to change Chinedu's future. But at the heart of Chinedu's story is also the extraordinary relationship between two siblings. His 14-year-old sister, Amarachi also helped in his younger brother's transplant by being his matched donor. Her contribution is an extraordinary one of love, courage and family support.

The story of Chinedu highlights the need for specialised haematology and transplant care for a few children with sickle cell disease. It also identifies the importance of accessing specialised treatment by international patients and their families, if necessary, when medical options are not available in their immediate area. We salute the courage of Chinedu, his parent’s dedication and Amarachi on the amazing support. This is a reminder to families suffering from sickle cell disease of the hope that specialised treatment can offer. We pray Chinedu continued health, happiness and a chance to enjoy the days of his childhood.

Bone Marrow Transplant Surgery for a Nigerian Patient at BLK Hospital

• Patient Name: Ms. Ojielo
• Age: 38 years old
• Gender: Female
• Country of Origin: Nigeria
• Doctor Name: Dr. Dharma Choudhary
• Hospital Name: BLK Hospital, Delhi
• Treatment: Bone Marrow Transplant

Ms. Ojielo, a 38-year Nigerian female recognized with Hodgkin Lymphoma. Her circumstance had significantly affected her quality of life, leading to severe fatigue and weakened immunity. After gaining knowledge of treatment alternatives online, she selected GetWellGo to facilitate her scientific journey to India.

Upon her arrival in India, GetWellGo’s worldwide patient services branch arranged for her airport switch, accommodation, and clinic appointments, ensuring she had an easy and comfortable revel in. Under the expert care of Dr. Dharma Choudhary, a leading bone marrow transplant professional, Ms. Ojielo underwent a successful transplant at BLK Hospital.
Post-surgery, she became cautiously monitored for any complications, receiving specialised care. Over the next few weeks, her situation advanced appreciably, and her body replied properly to the transplant.

Expressing her gratitude, Ms. Ojielo shared:

"My treatment at BLK Hospital changed into genuinely lifestyles-changing. From the medical doctors to the medical coordinators, everyone ensured I felt secure and well taken care of throughout the method. I am thankful to GetWellGo for directing me through this journey and giving me a brand new life."

We celebrate Ms. Ojielo’s recuperation and wish her good health and happiness in the future.

Bone Marrow Transplant Surgery for a Kenyan Patient at BLK Hospital

• Patient Name: Mr. Erastus Mutahi
• Age: 50 years old
• Gender: Male
• Country of Origin: Kenya
• Doctor Name: Dr. Dharma Choudhary
• Hospital Name: BLK Hospital, Delhi
• Treatment: Bone Marrow Transplant

Mr. Erastus Mutahi, a 50-yr Kenyan guy diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, a situation that seriously impacted his everyday lifestyles and ordinary well-being. As his health persisted to become worse, he began trying to find the high-quality remedy options. After enormous studies, he chose GetWellGo to facilitate his scientific journey to India.

Upon arrival in India, the global patient services department at GetWellGo ensured his smooth transition via arranging airport pickup, lodging, and appointments. With the expert care of Dr. Dharma Choudhary, a bone marrow transplant expert at BLK Hospital, Mr. Mutahi underwent a successful transplant.

Post-surgical treatment, he became carefully monitored for any headaches, receiving customized operative care. Over the next few weeks, his situation showed splendid development, and his body answered properly to the remedy.

Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Mutahi shared:

"My experience at BLK Hospital changed into lifestyle changing. From the medical doctors to the coordinators, all people ensured I felt good and well sorted at some point of the treatment. Choosing GetWellGo was the first-rate decision I made for my health, and I am particularly thankful for this second life."

We celebrate Mr. Erastus Mutahi’s healing and want him persevered proper health and happiness in his life.

Bone Marrow Transplant Surgery for an Iraqi Patient at BLK Hospital

• Patient Name: Mr. Mustafa
• Age: 27 years old
• Gender: Male
• Country of Origin: Iraq
• Doctor Name: Dr. Dharma Choudhary
• Hospital Name: BLK Hospital, Delhi
• Treatment: Bone Marrow Transplant

This is a real life experience of Mr. Mustafa, a 27-yr-old Iraqi man recognized with Leukemia, a lifestyle threatening condition that drastically impacted his health and day by day sports. As his condition worsened, he started searching for the great possible treatment alternatives and, after thorough research, selected GetWellGo to manual him via the medical system in India.

Upon arriving in India, the worldwide patient offerings branch at GetWellGo ensured his journey changed into smooth with the aid of arranging airport transfers, appropriate lodging, and medical institution appointments. Under the expert care of Dr. Dharma Choudhary, an exceedingly professional bone marrow transplant expert at BLK Hospital, Mr. Mustafa efficiently underwent a bone marrow transplant.

Following the surgery, he was intently monitored for any headaches, receiving intensive operative care. Over the next few weeks, his situation improved notably, and his body replied properly to the remedy, marking a brand new beginning in his life.

Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Mustafa shared:

"My treatment at BLK Hospital was great. From the instant I arrived, I felt nicely cared for. The doctors, clinical staff, and coordinators made certain that I felt good at some point of the whole treatment. Choosing GetWellGo became the nice selection for my remedy, and I am all thankful for this second chance at my life."

We celebrate Mr. Mustafa’s successful restoration and desire him persisted health and happiness within the future.
 

FAQ

1. How can I apply for, obtain, or schedule a bone marrow transplant appointment in India?

• We can assist you in finding the top bone marrow transplant hospital in India. Check us out at getwellgo.com, our official website. To schedule a bone marrow transplant appointment in India, fill out the form below and include all of your information. We present the top hospitals and medical professionals for bone marrow transplant treatments based on the input.

2. What dietary recommendations should I follow after BMT?
Here are some suggestions for managing wellbeing and keeping a healthy diet:

• Always keep your body hydrated.

• Refrain from consuming alcohol.

• Consume whole-grain cereal, and fruits; cut back on salt.

• Increase the amount of fiber and green veggies in your diet.

• Eat extra lean meats to get your protein needs met.

3. Why should I prefer India for bone marrow transplant?

• The Indian healthcare system is equipped with highly skilled physicians and teams for both surgical and post-operative care who can manage complicated cases at an affordable price.  Medical procedures and treatments in India cost almost half as much as in the West and other wealthy nations.