Choosing the center where you will have a stem cell transplant is a major decision. The following is a list of common questions and answers to help make that decision easier. For additional information about our transplant program, continue to peruse our cancer center web site.

What is the difference between an autologous and an allogeneic transplant?

In an autologous transplant, cells are collected from the patient who will have the transplant. In an allogeneic transplant, cells are collected from a donor. The donor can be a relative or someone unrelated from the National Marrow Donor Program.

What is the difference between a bone marrow transplant (BMT) and a peripheral stem cell transplant (PSCT)?

In both procedures, blood stem cells are collected and used for transplant. In a BMT, the stem cells are collected from the bone marrow and in a PSCT, they are collected from the peripheral blood.

How is it decided what kind of transplant I will have?

A disease specific physician will review your medical history, your pathology reports, and your previous therapy. Based on this information and the type of cancer you have, the physician will recommend a specific type of transplant or "protocol".

Is a transplant done as an inpatient or outpatient?

Depending on the type of transplant and the availability of a care partner, part or all of the transplant could occur as an outpatient. As an outpatient, you will be seen in the University Treatment Center and Clinic (UTCC). The Treatment Center is open seven days a week and soon will be open 24 hours a day. The same doctors, nurses and physician assistants care for patients both inpatient and outpatient.

What or who is a care partner?

A care partner is a family member or friend, selected by the patient to provide support and care to the patient during the transplant process. (See the section on cooperative care under the Lied Transplant Center).

Do I need a referral to have a transplant at The Nebraska Medical Center?

You, your doctor, or your insurance company can refer you to us. If you belong to an HMO, you must have a referral from your primary care doctor.

How soon after a referral can I see a physician at The Nebraska Medical Center?

This depends on how quickly we can obtain the information we need from your physician and the availability of the disease specific physician that would care for you. Usually a consult can be done within one to two weeks from the referral.

What information does The Nebraska Medical Center and the disease specific physician need before a consult can be done?

We will need the history of your cancer and treatment (progress notes, operation reports, types and amounts of chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy you have received, and laboratory reports. We will also need pathology slides and blocks and radiology scans. A complete list will be requested from your physician.

How long do we stay in Omaha?

This will depend on the type of transplant and your general medical condition. For an autologous transplant, approximately six to eight weeks. For an allogeneic transplant, approximately four months. This includes evaluation, work-up, stem cell collection, high dose therapy, transplant and initial recovery.

Where do we stay in Omaha?

There a number of close housing options on or nearby The Nebraska Medical Center Campus and arrangements for discounted rates at local hotels can be made (see section on on-campus lodging)

What should I bring to Omaha?

Bring items that will provide some diversion while recovering such as books, games and videos. Do not bring projects that will require a lot of concentration or technical skill. Pictures from home are always a nice addition to your room.

What do I wear?

Bring clothing that is comfortable and won't be ruined if they come into contact with blood or other solutions. Sweats are very popular.

What type of isolation do you use?

We use "Modified Protective Isolation". You cannot eat any fresh fruits or vegetables during the transplant. You cannot have flowers or plants in your hospital room. People coming into your hospital room and people working with you must wash their hands. The inpatient rooms have a HEPA filtration system.