Stem Cell Transplant

A stem cell is a unique type of cell that can turn into many different types of cells, like muscle, blood, or brain cells. If your blood cells have been damaged or destroyed by chemotherapy, radiation, or disease, a stem cell transplant into your bone marrow can help replace those cells.

If you are receiving a stem cell transplant for cancer, the first step is to lower the amount of cancer present in your body.  

After cancer treatment or for anyone else having a stem cell transplant, stem cells are harvested from your blood or bone marrow. Once harvested, the cells are frozen. After the stem cells have been collected, you'll receive high-dose chemotherapy to kill any remaining cancer. The frozen stem cells are then thawed and given back to you through an intravenous line in a process like a blood transfusion. The stem cells travel to your bone marrow where they will make new blood cells. 

Some side effects of a stem cell transplant can happen soon after the procedure. These may include:

• Diarrhea
• Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)
• Hair loss
• Infection
• Low appetite
• Low blood cell and platelet counts  
• Lung problems
• Mouth and throat pain
• Nausea  
• Tiredness
• Transplant failure
• Vomiting

Your team at the Stem Cell Transplant Program will help you manage these side effects.

There are also potential long-term side effects of a stem cell transplant. Your team will help you understand these side effects and your risk for them. 

Our program is designed to support you through every step of the transplant journey, from evaluation and treatment planning to transplant and long-term follow-up. Most transplants at BMC are performed in an outpatient setting, which provides excellent outcomes while reducing hospital stays, lowering treatment-related costs, and supporting recovery.

We are experienced in caring for patients with complex medical and social needs and are deeply committed to providing equitable, accessible care for all. We also take part in national and international clinical trials, offering eligible patients access to innovative therapies. 

Please call 617.638.6428 for more information about stem cell transplants at BMC.