Doctors at Safdarjung Hospital conducts first successful paediatric bone marrow transplant

Since the inception of this separate BMP unit in 2021, only adults transplants have been performed. This is the first time that a paediatric bone marrow transplant has been done at the hospital, Dr Gupta said.

The entire procedure was performed free of cost. If performed at a private hospital, the minimum cost would have been Rs 10 to 12 lakh, Dr Gupta said.

The entire transplant procedure was led by Dr Prashant Prabhakar, assistant professor in the Department of Paediatrics. He has been trained in paediatric oncology and bone marrow transplant at AIIMS, Delhi.

It was an autologous transplant as a part of the stem cells of the patient was taken out and cryo-preserved. Subsequently the patient was given very high dose chemotherapy and then the preserved stem cells were re-infused in the patient, adds PTI.

The procedure was carried out on August 2. After successful engraftment, the patient was discharged on September 7 and will remain under close observation for the next two months, Dr Prabhakar said.

This achievement stems from the establishment of a dedicated bone marrow transplant (BMT) unit in 2021, spearheaded by Director General Dr Atul Goel. This successful transplant opens doors for many children requiring BMT who cannot afford the procedure elsewhere, stated Dr Vandana Talwar, Medical Superintendent.

The hospital administration and medical team express their commitment to continuing this vital service under the guidance of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, said Dr Gupta.