Blood stem cells are collected through a process similar to donating blood, using an IV (intravenous) line in the donor's arm.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
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IV Line Placement: An IV line is inserted into a large vein in the donor's arm. This provides access to the bloodstream for collecting the stem cells.
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Apheresis Machine: The IV tubing is connected to a specialized machine called an apheresis machine.
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Stem Cell Separation: As blood flows through the apheresis machine, it separates the stem cells from the other blood components.
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Stem Cell Collection: The machine collects and stores the separated stem cells in a collection bag.
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Blood Return: The remaining blood components (red blood cells, white blood cells, and plasma) are returned to the donor through the same IV line.
Therefore, blood stem cell collection, also known as peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) collection, is a non-surgical procedure using a machine to separate and collect stem cells from the blood circulating in the donor's bloodstream via an IV.
