Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital Navi Mumbai Performs Bloodless Stem Cell Transplant for Multiple Myeloma Patient

Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital Navi Mumbai Performs Bloodless Stem Cell Transplant for Multiple Myeloma Patient

~ Cutting-edge transfusion-free procedure offers new hope for patients unable to undergo traditional blood transfusions. ~

Navi Mumbai, December 03, 2024 (GNI) : Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital Navi Mumbai today announced the successful completion of a pioneering bloodless, or transfusion-free, autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) on a 57-year-old patient suffering from multiple myeloma. This landmark procedure represents a significant advance in patient-centred care, offering new hope to individuals who cannot undergo traditional blood transfusions due to medical conditions, religious beliefs, or personal preferences.

Mr. Baban Shinde, a resident of Navi Mumbai, presented with quadriparesis or weakness in all four limbs. He was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a blood cancer that occurs when plasma cells in the bone marrow become cancerous and multiply rapidly. In addition to multiple myeloma, he also had  multiple health challenges, including hypertension, diabetes, hypertriglyceridemia, functional iron deficiency, borderline vitamin B12 levels, compromised lung function, and kidney disease. Given the complexity of his medical condition, traditional blood transfusions posed significant risks.

Understanding these challenges, Dr. Kunal Goyal, Consultant Haemato-Oncologist specializing in Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) and Cellular Therapies (CAR-T) at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital Navi Mumbai decided to adopted a cutting-edge approach and performed a bloodless or transfusion-free autologous stem cell transplant. Dr. Kunal Goyal explained, “Bloodless ASCT (Autologous transplant) is an innovative medical approach aimed at minimizing or completely eliminating the need for blood product transfusions during the surgical procedure. This method is beneficial for patients who cannot receive transfusions due to religious beliefs such as Jehovah’s Witnesses, personal preferences, or medical conditions that increase transfusion risks as in Mr. Baban Shinde’s case.”

In Mr. Shinde’s case, several key steps ensured the success of the transfusion-free procedure. The patient’s bone marrow was utilised as the source of stem cells, which reduced reliance on blood transfusions compared to peripheral blood stem cell collection. Iron levels were optimized to enhance the body’s natural ability to produce red blood cells, and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) were used to stimulate the bone marrow, to treat the anaemia without transfusions. Medication was given to preserve platelet function and count, reducing bleeding risks. Meticulous surgical techniques and blood conservation methods were employed to minimize blood loss due to the procedure. Through proactive management with symptoms monitored for infections and potential complications led to a successful stem cell transplant with positive outcome for the patient.

For the patient, the transfusion-free approach also offers other benefits. It removes the risk of potential complications associated with blood transfusions, such as allergic reactions, infections, and immune system responses. It allows for fewer postoperative complications and quicker recoveries with improved outcomes. This approach also respects a patient’s beliefs and preferences, building satisfaction and trust.

Dr. Kunal Goyal added, “A bloodless or transfusion free autologous transplant (ASCT) and particularly a complex procedure such as a stem cell transplant requires a multidisciplinary team with specialised expertise in bloodless medicine and transplantation techniques. Careful planning, detailed preoperative assessments, and rigorous post-transplant care are crucial to ensure patient safety and optimal clinical outcomes.”

The patient, Mr. Baban Shinde was discharged after a successful recovery without the need for blood transfusions. He is doing well and has returned to a normal life with his family and work.

“The successful completion of this bloodless stem cell transplant attests to our hospital’s commitment to pioneering innovative medical solutions. We are proud of Dr. Kunal Goyal and his team for breaking new ground in patient-centred care,” said Dr. Shashikant Pawar, COO, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital Navi Mumbai. “This ground-breaking procedure offers new hope to patients who, due to various reasons, cannot undergo traditional blood transfusions. It enhances treatment options for patients with complex medical needs while reinforcing our mission to provide compassionate care that respects individual beliefs and preferences. “Ends GNI