Two donation methods: PBSC and bone marrow
There are two methods of donation: peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC) and bone marrow. The patient’s doctor chooses the donation method that is best for the patient.
PBSC donation is a nonsurgical procedure that takes place at a blood center or outpatient hospital unit. For 5 days leading up to donation, you will receive injections of a drug called filgrastim to increase the number of blood-forming cells in your bloodstream. On the day of your donation, your blood is removed through a needle in one arm and passed through a machine that separates out the blood-forming cells. The remaining blood is returned to you through the other arm. Your blood-forming cells are back to their normal levels within 4 to 6 weeks. To learn more, visit the national Be The Match website. Look for the video where Jeff, a donor, explains PBSC donation.
Marrow donation is a surgical outpatient procedure that takes place at a hospital. You will receive anesthesia and feel no pain during the donation. Doctors use a needle to withdraw liquid marrow from the back of your pelvic bone. The marrow replaces itself completely within 4 to 6 weeks. To learn more, watch Paul, a marrow donor, explain his experience with bone marrow donation.