Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cell Therapy

The Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cell Therapy Department provides specialised treatment for patients with haematological malignancies and selected non-malignant blood disorders. Its role is to deliver intensive, carefully coordinated therapies that replace or restore blood-forming cells and support the recovery of the immune system.

What the department does

The department evaluates patients for autologous and allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and provides care throughout mobilisation or donor preparation, stem cell collection, conditioning treatment, transplantation, and recovery. Where available and clinically appropriate, the department may also coordinate specialised cellular therapies. Care is delivered by a multidisciplinary team that includes haematologists, transplant physicians, nurses, laboratory specialists, pharmacists, infection specialists, and other supporting professionals.

Conditions and clinical questions addressed

Transplantation and cell therapy may be considered for conditions such as leukaemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes, and selected bone marrow failure or immune disorders. The department assesses whether these treatments are appropriate based on the diagnosis, disease status, previous treatment, general health, donor availability, and expected benefits and risks.

Clinical approach

Every patient undergoes a detailed pre-treatment assessment, including blood tests, infection screening, organ-function testing, imaging, and other investigations where required. The treatment plan is individualised and discussed with the patient and family. Particular attention is given to infection prevention, transfusion support, nutrition, symptom control, and the early identification of complications such as graft-versus-host disease after an allogeneic transplant.

What patients can expect

The transplant process includes several stages and may require a prolonged hospital stay followed by close outpatient monitoring. Before treatment begins, the team will explain the proposed procedure, possible risks, fertility considerations, infection precautions, visitor guidance, and the expected recovery period. Patients should bring an identity document, referral and medical records, previous test results, and a complete list of medicines and supplements. A reliable caregiver and suitable arrangements for the recovery period may also be required.