Autologous Stem Cell Transplant Animation Video

What is a stem cell transplant?

Autologous Stem Cell Transplant is a physician may use a special syringe to retrieve bone marrow directly from the hip bone. Bone marrow stem cells are removed from the patient’s own body prior to cancer treatment in order to protect them. Most stem cells are in your bone marrow. You also have some in your blood that circulate from your bone marrow. Bone marrow stem cells turn into red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets to help your body stay healthy. If your bone marrow is attacked by a disease such as multiple myeloma, it can no longer make normal blood cells. In a stem cell transplant, healthy stem cells are placed in your body through an IV to help your bone marrow start to work right. The first step in an autologous stem cell transplant is harvesting the stem cells. Our doctors typically obtain stem cells from the bloodstream (peripheral blood stem cells). A mobilization treatment brings the stem cells from the bone marrow into the peripheral bloodstream. Once the stem cells are in the bloodstream, the collection process begins.

After the transplant

Our hematology oncology team will collaborate to reduce the risk of complications and address your needs throughout the stem cell transplant process.