Cord Blood

What is cord blood?
Cord blood is the blood within the umbilical cord and placenta, usually thrown away after birth, is a rich source of blood stem cells.

Why is Cord Blood so valuable?
Collecting Cord Blood offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to obtain stem cells. Stem cells are unique. They are the building blocks of our blood and the foundation of our immune system. They can also reproduce into red cells (these carry oxygen throughout our bodies), white cells (these fight off infections) and platelets (these create clots, preventing us from bleeding excessively). Patients undergo treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy in order to destroy cancer cells. These treatments are often effective in attacking these cells. Unfortunately, they sometimes destroy a patient's vital stem cells and bone marrow. After these treatments, it may be necessary to infuse or transplant stem cells back into the body to "boost" the immune system and repopulate new blood cells. If a transplant was necessary, your child's Cord Blood would provide a perfect match. It could also benefit a sibling, grandparent, relative or even you. Stem cells from your child's Cord Blood could be used as part of a therapy associated with many cancers and blood disorders. By preserving your baby's stem cells, he or she will have a guaranteed source of perfectly matched cells in the event a life threatening illness develops and the cells need to be used to combat the disease.

How is Cord Blood collected?
Cord blood is collected using a blood bag that contains Anticoagulant Citrate Phosphate Dextrose Solution (CPD). The collection may occur before or after the delivery of the placenta. Your attending physician or nurse midwife may use either method. There is no significant difference in either method.

How is Cord Blood stored?
Each cord blood unit is processed, tested, preserved in vapor phase liquid nitrogen and stored in the laboratory.