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Stem Cell Transplantation

More than 30 years of experience in the field of stem cell transplantation has allowed the McGill University Health Centre to become a leader in the discipline, performing autologous as well as unrelated and related donor allogeneic transplants. One of only six Canadian healthcare facilities accredited by the Foundation for the Accreditation of Cellular Therapy (FACT), the McGill University Health Centre is also recognized by the Quebec government as a centre of excellence in adult stem cell transplants.

Stem cell transplantation is used to treat an increasing number of diseases, and our team keeps expanding its expertise and activities to better meet these needs. Today, more than 40 transplants are performed each year to treat adult leukemia, MDS, lymphoma and multiple myeloma.

Patients who receive stem cells may be on the road to recovery or may even be cured. Experience and research have allowed us to better manage side effects and improve the outcomes of transplantation.

Injections of growth factors are administered in the days prior in order to stimulate the donor’s stem cells.

Stem cell harvesting is made possible by plasma transfusion: blood is extracted and separated into elements by centrifugal force.

Established in 2007 as a clinical and research tool, the McGill University Health Centre Umbilical Cord Blood Bank is helping us expand the availability of stem cells for adult patients who need treatment, as well as investigate innovative ways to use stem cells in the future.