Bone Marrow Transplant

Bone marrow transplants come in several types, each with its unique approach and application. The most important types include:

1. Autologous Bone Marrow Transplantation: In this procedure, a patient’s own healthy bone marrow or stem cells are collected and stored before undergoing high-dose chemotherapy or radiation. Post-treatment, these cells are returned to the patient’s body to replenish the bone marrow and restore its function. Ideal for conditions like lymphoma and multiple myeloma, this transplant type has a lower risk of complications like graft-versus-host disease.

2. Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplantation: This transplant uses stem cells from a genetically compatible donor, either a family member or an unrelated donor from a registry. The donor’s cells replace the patient’s diseased or damaged bone marrow. Commonly used for leukemia, certain immune deficiencies, and bone marrow failure syndromes, this method has a higher risk of complications, including graft-versus-host disease.

3. Umbilical Cord Blood Transplantation: This method uses stem cells from umbilical cord blood collected after a baby’s birth. These cells are frozen and stored for future transplants. Cord blood cells, being less mature than adult bone marrow cells, may offer a lower chance of graft-versus-host disease but typically engraft more slowly. This transplant is often chosen when a suitable bone marrow donor isn’t available, especially for pediatric patients and smaller adults.

4. Haploidentical Transplantation (Haplo): In haploidentical transplantation, the donor is a half-matched relative, like a parent, child, or sibling. Advances in transplant techniques have made haplo transplants viable when a fully matched donor isn’t available. Special techniques are used to reduce the risk of complications. Haplo transplants are increasingly used for various blood cancers and bone marrow failure syndromes.

Each transplant type offers different benefits and considerations. The choice depends on factors like the underlying disease, donor availability, and medical advice. Our medical team evaluates each patient’s condition and history to recommend the most suitable approach.

A stem cell or bone marrow transplant is a life-saving medical procedure that gives hope to patients with a variety of life-threatening diseases. Let us explore each of the five complex stages in more detail so you can better understand this incredible journey:

1. Investigations and Research: Determining Your Eligibility

This first phase lays the foundation for your transplant experience. Think of it as a detailed map that shows you the geography of your body and determines how prepared it is for what lies ahead. Here’s what it looks like:

• The medical case review: Your medical history is examined in great detail to uncover previous illnesses, surgeries and therapies that could affect the outcome of the transplant.
• Detailed physical examination: Our doctors will carefully assess your general state of health, paying particular attention to vital signs, organ function and any physical limitations.
• Laboratory tests: Comprehensive blood tests examine the number of blood cells, the performance of the immune system and any infections. They act as detectives of your body. A bone marrow aspiration and biopsy allow a more thorough examination of the condition of your bone marrow and your suitability as a donor.
• The path ahead: Imaging procedures such as CT scans and X-rays provide information about the health of the organs and indicate underlying problems that could make transplantation more difficult.
• Psychological resilience assessment: Psychologists might assess your mental and emotional health to make sure you have the mental strength to get through the difficult times.
• Your support system: Social workers might assess your current support system to make sure you have enough support for your recovery and necessary changes in your life situation.

This phase is stressful, but important to determine if you are a candidate for transplantation and to lay the foundation for transplant success.

2. Collecting the Hopeful Seeds: Harvesting Stem Cells

In this phase, the stem cells, the priceless seeds of regeneration, are harvested. There are two options, each with its own particular nuances:

• You need an autologous transplant from your own garden: think of it as if you were growing your own seeds. There are two common ways to harvest stem cells. They may be collected from the bloodstream, a process known as apheresis. During the apheresis procedure, blood is drawn from the patient, passed through a machine that separates out the stem cells, and the remaining blood is returned to the patient. This process is less invasive than bone marrow harvest and is typically done on an outpatient basis. Second method is bon marrow harvest which is held under local or general anesthesiaç During this procedure stem cells are gently harvested with large needles, usually from your pelvic bones. The treatment takes about an hour and is minimally invasive.
• Help with an allogeneic transplant from a compatible neighbor: Here you look for a suitable donor, often a sibling or a suitable person from a donor database. They can donate peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC) by apheresis or bone marrow, which works in a similar way to the autologous method. Apheresis is a substitute for platelet donation; it takes several hours but is an important alternative source of stem cells.

Eventually, these priceless seeds are carefully handled and ready for their life-changing journey, regardless of where they come from.

3. Laying the Foundation Stone: The Exercise Program

Think of this phase as digging up the soil to make room for new seedlings to germinate. The exercise program prepares your body for the next stem cell infusion:

• High-dose radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy: These potent agents act like soil preservatives by clearing out damaged or diseased bone marrow and weakening your immune system so that the new stem cells are not rejected.
• A targeted approach: Your condition, donor type and general health will determine the exact protocol. It can be severe and lead to side effects such as fatigue, nausea and hair loss, but is essential for the success of the transplant.

This phase, in which the ground is prepared for the new life to take root, requires a great deal of strength and understanding.

4. Stem Cell Infusion: Sowing the Seeds of Renewal

The turning point has finally arrived. Through a central venous catheter, the harvested stem cells are introduced into your bloodstream, much like priceless seeds. Think of it as sparingly scattering the seeds into the ready soil:

• A smooth process: The infusion usually takes 30 to 60 minutes and is comparable to a blood transfusion. You will feel comfortable and awake throughout the procedure.
• Finding your home: Once administered, the stem cells embark on an amazing journey. They travel through your bloodstream in search of your bone marrow, which is their fertile terrain. Once there, they begin the slow but amazing process of creating new, healthy blood cells.

As the seeds of regeneration take root and start to bloom, this stage heralds the start of an amazing change.

5. Fostering the New Development: Recuperation and Beyond

This last stretch requires endurance and patience, like a marathon. Your body must take some time and great care to adjust to the shift, just like any newly planted garden.

• Stay in hospital: You will initially be kept in our hospitals for close observation and treatment of any possible side effects, including infections and GVHD.
• Outpatient following: After being discharged as an outpatient, follow-up visits are essential to monitor your risk of Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GVHD), check your blood cell counts, and adjust medications as needed. Recovery can span up to a year, making it crucial to have ongoing support from both your personal network and our medical team throughout this period..
• Lifestyle Blossoms: Cultivating a nutritious diet, engaging in regular exercise, and adopting stress-reduction techniques during your recovery period are key to fostering long-term health and well-being.

Each stage of this process is meticulously planned and executed, ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient.

A bone marrow transplant treatment’s length might vary significantly based on a number of factors, such as:

1. According to the Type of Transplant

• Autologous: The process of using your own body’s stem cells typically spans 6 to 12 months, although the actual transplant procedure itself only takes a few hours.
• Allogeneic: When stem cells are obtained from a donor, the entire process may extend over 3 to 6 months prior to the transplant, with the transplant procedure taking just a few hours.
• Haploidentical (Haplo): This method can have a variable timeline similar to allogeneic transplants. The preparatory phase, including donor matching and pre-transplant conditioning, may take several months, while the transplant procedure itself is completed within a few hours. Post-transplant recovery and monitoring are critical and can extend over several months to ensure successful engraftment and manage potential complications like GVHD.

2. Depending on the Conditioning Regimen Intensity

A key determinant is the intensity of the pre-transplant conditioning regimen, which typically involves chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. More intensive conditioning regimens often necessitate longer recovery periods, thereby extending the overall course of treatment. The specific timeline for each patient is tailored based on the individual’s response to the conditioning phase and the complexity of their medical needs.

3. Post-Transplant Recovery and Monitoring

The time needed for post-transplant recovery varies among patients. This phase includes monitoring for complications, ensuring engraftment of the transplanted cells, and managing any side effects or infections. The duration of this phase can be influenced by the patient’s overall health, age, and specific response to the transplant.

4. Patient’s Overall Health and Underlying Condition 

The general health of the patient and the severity of the underlying condition being treated can significantly impact the treatment duration. Patients with complex health issues or those in more advanced stages of their disease may require longer treatment and recovery periods.

Each patient’s journey with a bone marrow transplant is unique, with the treatment duration tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.

Determining eligibility for a bone marrow transplant involves a thorough assessment of various factors. These include age, overall health, the specific disease, and more. Here’s a breakdown of the key criteria:

1. General Elements:

• Age: Under 65 is excellent, with good organ function. In general, younger people can tolerate treatments better.
• Disease kind and severity: Certain diseases are riskier at their advanced stages, while certain diseases react better to transplants than others.
• General health: The capacity to endure treatment and sound underlying health is critical.

2. Particular Perspectives on Diseases:

• Blood cancers: Transplants are often considered curative for leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
• Non-cancer diseases: Transplants can also help treat thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, and aplastic anemia.

3. Additional Elements:

• Availability of a suitable donor: The search for a suitable donor is crucial for the success of allogeneic transplants.
• Tolerance of pre-transplant conditioning: Radiation or high-dose chemotherapy can be physically and psychologically demanding.
• Psychosocial support: A solid support network is needed to overcome the psychological and practical obstacles of the journey.

Each of these criteria plays a vital role in determining whether a bone marrow transplant is the right course of action, ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient.

Though many people find hope in bone-marrow transplantation, it’s important to be aware of the possible hazards connected to this potent treatment. Here’s a summary of some of the main issues:

• Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GVHD): This dangerous side effect (seen solely in Allogeneic and Haplo transplants) develops when your body’s tissues are attacked by donor immune cells. Think of it as friendly soldiers who have been deployed to defend a city by mistake turning against it. The severity of GVHD varies and requires extensive care.
• Infections: Following the transplant, your immune system is weakened, making you more susceptible to infections as you heal. Imagine it as traversing a microbial minefield, necessitating increased caution and preventative steps like cleanliness and avoiding crowded areas.
• Organ damage: Systems such as the liver, lungs, and kidneys may be harmed by drugs and the conditioning process. Think of it like administering a potent medication to your body that may have some unintended side effects. Thankfully, they are frequently transient, and close observation reduces the likelihood of their occurring.
• Graft failure: Occasionally, the donor cells may not engraft correctly, endangering the transplant’s outcome. Imagine that the recently sown seeds do not take root and that more assistance is needed. Even if it’s uncommon, you should be ready for the possibility.
• Long-Term Effects: Beyond the obvious dangers, there is a chance of later consequences such as cataracts, infertility, and even recurrent malignancies. Imagine it like a marathon where there can be challenges after the finish line. Healthy lifestyle choices and appropriate follow-up care, however, can greatly lower these risks.

At our hospitals, our highly experienced medical team, international accreditation, and a history of successful transplants equip us to effectively manage these complexities and risks. Our commitment is to ensure the safest and most effective treatment journey for our patients.

Reducing the risk and ensuring the success of a bone marrow transplant is our top priority, and at our hospitals, we have established a comprehensive approach to achieve this. From our expert medical team to internationally accredited facilities, we are dedicated to providing the highest standard of care throughout the entire transplant process.

• Expert medical team: Our hospitals are home to a highly skilled and knowledgeable team that specializes in bone marrow transplants. This team has the expertise and experience required to guarantee that patients get effective and safe care during the whole transplant procedure.
• Internationally Accredited Facilities: Our hospitals have earned accreditation from JACIE, the foremost international authority in BMT. This recognition underscores our adherence to the highest international standards in patient safety and care.
• Proven Track Record: Our hospitals have successfully completed thousands of bone marrow transplants so far. This record clearly demonstrates our proficiency and breadth of knowledge in this area.
• Comprehensive Patient Support: We offer total support to patients throughout the bone marrow transplant process. This holistic approach aids in both mental and physical healing.
• Rigorous Safety Measures: We implement stringent precautions to ensure patient safety during the transplant. These measures significantly reduce the risk of infections and enhance treatment outcomes.
• Continuous Advancements: Our university constantly monitors developments in the field of bone marrow transplantation. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most current and effective treatment options.

Our approach combines expertise, accredited facilities, a proven track record, comprehensive support, strict safety measures, and a commitment to advancement, all contributing to the high success rate of our bone marrow transplant procedures.

An effective bone marrow transplant depends on a number of variables, including a balanced diet and way of life. What you should know about taking care of your body following a transplant is as follows:

1. Healthy Nutrition

• The importance of nutrition: Try to eat a diet high in nutrients and well-balanced to help your body repair and strengthen your immune system. Consume a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein sources.
• Staying hydrated is essential: Throughout the day, make sure to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water and other healthy fluids. This is crucial since dehydration increases the risk of diseases.
• Food safety is important: To prevent diseases, pay special attention to food safety. Make sure to properly wash fruits and vegetables, prepare meat to acceptable temperatures, and steer clear of raw or unpasteurized dairy products.
• Control adverse effects: Your appetite may be impacted by some side effects, such as nausea and vomiting. To address these symptoms, talk to your doctor or dietitian about making dietary or pharmaceutical modifications.
• Individual needs: Depending on your particular condition and level of recuperation, your post-transplant food requirements may change. Our medical team will lead you for individualized advice.

2. Method for Daily Life

• Make rest a priority: Your body needs a lot of sleep to repair its immune system and strength. Get adequate rest, and when you need to, take pauses.
• Gentle activity: As you feel comfortable, progressively add mild activity to your daily regimen. Begin with walking and work your way up to low-impact exercises like swimming.
• Prevent infection: Wash your hands often, stay away from crowded areas and stay away from sick individuals. For added safety in public places, wear a mask.
• Control your stress: Stress might hinder your healing. To reduce tension and anxiety, try relaxing methods like meditation.
• Remain good: Throughout this journey, your emotional and physical health may be greatly impacted by having a good outlook and a solid support network.

3. Additional Topics to Consider About

• Substance avoidance: Avoid alcohol and tobacco use since these can compromise your body’s ability to recover and strengthen your immune system.
• Travel: After your transplant, especially in the first few months, when infection risk is highest, speak with your doctor before going anywhere.
• Social activities: Return to social activities gradually. Refrain from being in close proximity to ill folks.

Following these guidelines can significantly impact your recovery and overall health after a bone marrow transplant.

A bone marrow transplant’s price varies greatly and is influenced by a number of variables.

• Type of Transplant: The type of transplant is a major factor for price. Autologous transplants and umbilical cord blood transplants tend to be less expensive compared to allogeneic and haploidentical transplants. Allogeneic transplants and haploidentical transplants usually incur higher costs due to more complex donor matching, additional testing, and the potential for more intricate post-transplant care.
• Patient Factors: The complexity of the basic medical problem, complexities that develop all over therapy, duration of hospital stay, requirement for further medicines or treatment can also change the overall treatment price.
• Medical Center & Location: Hospital fees, equipment and medication costs, and personnel costs can fluctuate significantly between institutions and even geographical areas. Here are some estimate prices in several countries.

Türkiye is notable for combining affordability with high-quality medical services. Our hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and technology, staffed by a team of highly experienced and specialized professionals. We offer JACIE accredited treatment at competitive prices, ensuring world-class care without the high costs associated with other countries.

There are a number of possible advantages to receiving your bone marrow transplant therapy in Türkiye. However, it’s imperative that you contrast these with factors specific to your needs and situation. A overview of several potential reasons to consider Türkiye is provided below:

• Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to many Western countries, bone marrow transplants are far less expensive in Turkey. Savings of at least 50% are attainable when comparing to pricing in the Europe or US. This decreased cost is available due to factors like labor cost savings and healthcare laws.
• Medical Expertise: There are many well-trained physicians in Türkiye that specialize in bone marrow transplants. The country has a strong hospital network. Many doctors have attended prestigious international medical institutions and remain up to date on the latest advancements in transplant technology.
• International Accreditation: Türkiye stands out as a global destination of choice for bone marrow transplant treatments, particularly due to our hospitals that hold JACIE accreditation. JACIE (Joint Accreditation Committee-ISCT & EBMT) sets the highest standards in stem cell transplantation and promotes excellence in this field. Along with JACIE accreditation, our hospitals have ISO quality certification is an internationally recognized mark of quality and safety.
• Accessibility: Türkiye stands out for its quick access to high-quality healthcare, with shorter wait times crucial for urgent medical needs. Ideally located at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia, it offers geographical and cultural familiarity to a diverse patient population. This, combined with advanced medical facilities and a multilingual staff, makes Türkiye a preferred destination for efficient and comprehensive bone marrow transplants.
• Infrastructure and Facilities: Modern technology and medical services are available at several Turkish hospitals for bone marrow transplants. This includes specialist bone marrow transplant units equipped with cutting-edge machinery and a clean laboratory. Erciyes University is among the top 10 research universities in Türkiye and our hospital at Erciyes University have been awarded the Hand Hygiene Award and the Baby-Friendly Hospital Award by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye. 
• Patient-centered Approach: According to several patients, our hospitals are renowned for prioritizing patient comfort and emotional health, offering culturally sensitive care, multilingual support, and personalized treatment plans. Beyond medical care, we provide comprehensive assistance with visa procedures, flight bookings, accommodations, and interpreter services. Our commitment extends to facilitating shopping, and cultural tours, ensuring a holistic and stress-free experience for our international patients in Türkiye.

In the end, the decision on where to obtain treatment is highly personal and distinct. Think about your own preferences, support network, financial situation, and health while weighing the potential advantages of relocating to Turkey. Make an informed decision by speaking with your doctor and researching options across many countries.

Established as a pioneer in the field of bone-marrow transplantation, Erciyes University is located in the Cappadocia Region of Türkiye. Since its establishment in 1997, the university’s Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Treatment Centers have performed almost 3,000 transplants, giving many patients hope and healing.

The University has two bone marrow transplant centers:

1. KANKA Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplant Center:

   • Prestigious Accreditation: The first and only JACIE Accredited pediatric BMT center in Türkiye.
   • Expert Medical Team: Includes two full professors, one associate professor, and one assistant professor.
   • Global Impact: Hundreds of children from various countries have been successfully treated for critical diseases.

2. SAHINUR DEDEMAN Adult Bone Marrow Transplant Center:

   • Notable Recognition: Türkiye’s first JACIE Accredited center for adult BMT.
   • Experienced Professionals: Comprises three full professors and three specialist doctors.
   • International Reach: A proven track record of treating hundreds of adults with serious illnesses from different nations.

Explore Our Journey and Expertise: For more insights into our dedicated team and the pioneering achievements of our Bone Marrow Transplant Centers, we invite you to visit our ‘About Us‘ page. Here, you’ll find comprehensive information highlighting our unwavering commitment to healthcare excellence.

We understand that having bone marrow transplant in a foreign country can be exhausting, filled with uncertainties and questions. That’s why we’re committed to being by your side every step of the way, ensuring you feel confident, secure, and well-informed throughout your treatment journey. From the moment you reach out to us until your return home, our dedicated team will provide comprehensive support, guidance, and care. We’re here to make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible, offering a comforting assurance that you’re not alone in this journey. Trust us to be your steadfast partner, turning a challenging time into a journey of healing and hope.

Here is a list of our foreign patient services and support that are available to help make your medical tourism trip to Türkiye as easy and stress-free as possible:

1. Pre-travel Arrangements:

1. Travel and visa assistance: Our committed patient coordinators assists you with arranging flights, and applying for visas if necessary.
2. Accommodations: In addition to our hospitals’ comfortable and hygenic rooms, we have a range of affordable hotels and flats, which are close to our hospitals. Our patient coordinators assist you in locating lodging that meets your requirements and interests.
3. Medical consultations: To explore your options for treatment and receive a preliminary diagnosis, you can make online appointments with our specialists prior to your trip.

2. Upon Arrival:

1. Meet & greet: Your patient coordinator receives you at the airport and assist you with getting to your lodging or the hospital.
2. Interpretation: We offer translation services in your mother tongue during your journey, in order to facilitate smooth communication between you and the medical personnel.
3. Cultural advice: During your time in Türkiye, patient coordinators assist you in acclimating to the local way of life and make recommendations for things to see and do.

3. During Treatment:

1. Medical treatment: Our BMT centers employ highly skilled and experienced physicians and nurses. Each member is thoroughly trained to provide world-class medical care to our international patients, ensuring they receive the highest standard of treatment.
2. Post-operative care: Before you go, our doctors provide you all the instructions for recovery and care that you need.

4. Post-Treatment:

1. Follow-up care coordination: We ensure continuity of care by coordinating follow-up appointments and consultations, which can be conducted virtually if you have returned home.
2. Support services: Our team remains available to address any post-treatment questions or concerns, offering guidance and support as you continue your recovery journey.
3. Reintegration assistance: We provide advice and resources to help you smoothly transition back to your daily life, ensuring your ongoing health and well-being.

Conclusion: Our International Patient Support and Services are designed to ensure a seamless and comforting experience throughout your medical journey. We understand the complexities of seeking medical treatment abroad and commit to managing every aspect of your journey with utmost care and professionalism.

Begin Your Journey with Us: Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist in your treatment journey. Let us be your partner in health, offering the care and support you deserve.