Table of Contents
Preparing for a stem cell transplant
After deciding to have a stem cell transplant, the process of getting ready for treatment can start. You will have several medical tests to check that you are fit for the transplant. Additionally, it is a good idea to spend some time preparing yourself both physically and mentally for any possible challenges ahead.
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Pre-Transplant Evaluation
Conditioning therapy and the transplant are significant undertakings for your body. They may cause both short and long-term side effects that may be difficult to manage. Therefore it is essential to check that you are otherwise in good health before the treatment.
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Pre-Transplantation Family Conference
Before your transplantation admission, you and your immediate family members will be invited to meet with our transplantation medical and nursing team.
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Your doctor will discuss details such as the reason for the transplantation, potential side effects or risks, and the process.
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You and your family members will have the opportunity to ask questions and clarify any doubts. Once you agree with the medical decision of transplantation, we will need you to sign a consent form to proceed with the transplantation.
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If you have questions about any aspect of your transplant, it is best to ask our doctor as they can provide advice specific to you.
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Here are some pointers that can make a difficult conversation easier:
- Write down all questions you want to have answered.
- There are no stupid questions.
- You can never have too many questions.
- Do not be afraid to say you do not understand. Our medical team is here to help you.
- Your partner, a family member or friend can go with you. They can help you remember all the information provided, and be there for emotional support.
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Here are some questions that you might want to consider:
- Why is a transplant needed to treat my blood cancer or blood disorder?
- How long does it take to arrange the transplant?
- What is the process of finding a donor for me?
- What is the cost of my treatment and transplant?
- How can I prepare for my stem cell transplant?
- What is the likelihood of my stem cell transplant being a success?
- What are the chances of making a full recovery?
- How long does it take to make a full recovery after a stem cell transplant?
- What side effects might I experience from my treatment?
- How will my stay in protective isolation be?
- When can I return home?
- How long will it take before I can return to work after a stem cell transplant?
- Will my treatment affect my chance of having children in future?
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Packing Your Hospital Bag
We have prepared a list of things that you can pack for your stay.
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FAQs | View All FAQs | ||
| • | How long does it take for a bone marrow transplant to engraft Engraftment refers to transplanted stem cells settling into the bone marrow to begin creating new blood cells. It typically takes between 10-14 days after the transplant for engraftment to occur. | ||
| • | Do you lose weight during a stem cell transplant? Several short-term and long-term complications of a stem cell transplant can result in weight loss. Short term complications such as throat and mouth pain, along with vomiting or nausea, can make it difficult for patients to eat. Additionally, long term complications following a stem cell transplant like graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD) may also result in weight loss. . Our transplant team will monitor your oral intake as well as weight through the transplant journey. A dietician is an important member of our transplant team who will regularly review and advise if additional nutritional support is required. | ||
| • | How serious is a bone marrow transplant? A bone marrow transplant is a major medical procedure. It offers a potential curative option for some severe forms of haematological conditions such as acute leukaemia. Our doctor will work with you to determine if a bone marrow transplant is a suitable treatment option for your condition. Both the risks and benefits will be weighed. Our doctor will also explain to you the potential complications and the seriousness of each. | ||
| • | How long does fatigue last after a stem cell transplant? Fatigue after a stem cell transplant is a side effect experienced by many patients. During the second and third weeks following your stem cell transplant, you are likely to feel the most tired as your blood cell counts will be at their lowest. You should begin to gain more energy as time passes. However, the fatigue can last for up to a couple of years post-transplantation. | ||
| • | When can you go back to work after a stem cell transplant? While the time taken for a patient to return to work after a stem cell transplant varies, the earliest is between 2 to 4 months following their transplant. While the idea of being away from work for such a long period before returning may be worrying, you may want to start slow, such as going in a few times a week. . It is normal to find it challenging to match the pace of work you were comfortable at before your stem cell transplant. Our transplant team is available to help you make the transition easier and help you manage the side effects experienced during your recovery, if any. | ||
| • | Can you live a normal life after a stem cell transplant? Yes, it is possible to live a full and normal life following a stem cell transplant. While it will take time for you to regain your regular level of activity, many patients start to feel stronger between 2 months to a year after their stem cell transplant. However, patients should note that this is still the recovery period, and fatigue is to be expected. | ||
| • | What happens if a bone marrow transplant fails? A bone marrow transplant can fail if the body does not accept the new donor cells. This is known as graft failure and is suspected in patients whose counts do not increase after three to four weeks following a bone marrow transplant. . Graft failure can result in severe bleeding and infection and is more likely to occur in patients who receive a lower number of stem cells or when the patient and donor are not well matched. . Should a patient’s graft fail, they can receive a second dose of stem cells from the original donor. Sometimes a second transplant from a different donor is required. | ||
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Disclaimer:
The information on the Centre For Clinical Haematology website is intended for educational use. It should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified health professional.
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Contact Us
Locations
Contact
WhatsApp : +65 6256 8836
Email : contact@cfch.com.sg
.
Consultation Hours
Monday to Friday : 8.30am – 5.30pm
Saturday : 8.30am – 12.30pm
Closed on Sunday & Public Holidays
.
Find us on Facebook
Drop a Line
© Centre for Clinical Haematology | 2023