A regional autologous bone marrow transplant network: transfers to designated centers on the day after transplant.
Autologous bone marrow transplantation (ABMT) is becoming increasingly prevalent for treatment of advanced malignant disease. In order to increase the availability and utility of this therapy, we assessed the feasibility of transferring patients to their regional referral centers on the day after marrow infusion (day 1), for management post-transplant. This prospective study compares the outcome of 77 patients either transferred the day after marrow transplant for subsequent management at one of six selected Canadian regional centers closest to their domicile, or treated entirely at The Toronto Hospital, according to a common protocol. Study end-points included frequency of complications during transfer, transplant-related morbidity and mortality and hematopoietic recovery. Assessment of eligibility for transplant, bone marrow harvesting, autograft cryopreservation, administration of intensive therapy and marrow infusion were conducted in all cases at The Toronto Hospital. Thirty patients received marrow transplants and were transferred on day 1. There were no complications during transfer. Compared with 47 consecutive patients treated entirely at The Toronto Hospital, there were no differences in treatment-related morbidity or mortality, use of intravenous antifungal therapy or total days of hospitalization. We conclude that day 1 transfer of patients after ABMT to designated centers is feasible and safe. The operation of a regional ABMT network appears to benefit patients, relatives, referring physicians, the transplant center and may also improve health care delivery.
Crump
M
M
University of Toronto Autologous Bone Marrow Transplant, Canada.
Brandwein
J M
JM
Smith
A M
AM
Langley
G R
GR
Burnell
M J
MJ
Huebsch
L B
LB
Markman
S J
SJ
Robinson
K S
KS
Sutton
D M
DM
Solh
H
H
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D016026:Bone Marrow Transplantation; D002170:Canada; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006782:Hospitals, Special; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010360:Patient Transfer; D011182:Postoperative Care; D016896:Treatment Outcome