How are stem cells taken from bone marrow?
In order to take stem cells from bone marrow, between 0.5 and 1.5 liters of bone marrow are removed from the back of the pelvic bone (the iliac crest) using a special needle. The exact amount is determined by the concentration of stem cells in the bone marrow that is taken. To do this, the needle usually has to be inserted at different points on the bone. The stem cells are then removed from the bone marrow in a laboratory and prepared for transplantation.
Removing bone marrow is a complex procedure. The donor is given a general anesthetic, and usually spends one to two days in the hospital. In the first few weeks following the procedure, there may be bruising and pain where the needle was inserted. Some people have temporary back pain. Having an anesthetic is always associated with certain risks too. And there is a risk of infection from the surgical procedure. For these reasons, stem cells are generally taken from blood nowadays.