Cord blood transplantation is a medical procedure that uses stem cells collected from the umbilical cord and placenta after a baby is born. These stem cells can help treat various diseases, including certain types of cancer, blood disorders, and immune system conditions. The process involves collecting the cord blood, processing it, and then storing it for future use.
When a patient needs a transplant, the stored cord blood can be infused into their bloodstream. The stem cells then migrate to the bone marrow, where they can produce healthy blood cells. This type of transplantation is often less complicated than using stem cells from bone marrow or peripheral blood.