December 2, 2010 Probably done collecting stem cells

Adrian is most likely done collecting stem cells, the result will be in, tomorrow morning. (MD Anderson called tonight, said it looks like he is). He has to call to find out and if he is for sure, he can go and have his Central line exchanged. From what I understand this is not taking the whole thing out, just to change the cords and caps hanging outside to smaller ones.

I will keep you updated on this. 

When they did the collection of stem cells, they were drawing blood basically. The machine then separates the stem cells that are floating around in the blood in to a special bag. (see picture from earlier) This is what they freeze and then give back to him - ie. Transplant. 

The rest of the blood is given back right away, the amount of blood being taken out and put back in, I am not sure. This is that made him tired - being drained of blood. 

Today he's feeling great and has been out with a friend that has gone to visit him. Joy in Rotary House - Adrian has his X-box football partner right there !!! 

Lets keep our fingers crossed Dr. Alousi allows him to come home for a few days next week!!! 

Here is a small video on how a transplant works:

Video: How a stem cell transplant works

Stem Cell Collection

Overview The collection of stem cells (apheresis) is a painless procedure that takes about four hours. During the procedure, you may relax in bed, watch television, listen to tapes or read. Your blood will be withdrawn through your CVC and circulated through a cell-separating machine. This machine separates and collects white blood cells, including the stem cells, along with a few red blood cells and platelets. The remaining blood cells are returned to you through your CVC. Only a small amount (about 1 unit) of your blood is in the separator machine at any one time. Your blood is returned to you at the same rate it is removed. Sometimes patients have a little dizziness, numbness, tingling, chilling, or lightheadedness during the procedure. These symptoms are caused by a substance that  keeps the blood from clotting as the cells are collected. If you notice any of these symptoms during the collection procedure, tell your transplant or pheresis nurse immediately. These symptoms can be managed by temporarily slowing or stopping the procedure, giving you some calcium, or covering you with warm blankets.  You may need to undergo several collection procedures before enough stem cells are collected to give back to you after your high-dose chemotherapy. These collections are usually performed daily. It is a good idea to eat a normal meal before collection and include calcium-rich foods (milk, yogurt, or cheese for example). These foods can help prevent some of the side effects of the procedure. Lab tests are done each day on the cells to check how many have been collected. The cells are frozen and stored in separate bags under special conditions until they are needed for your transplant.