Bone marrow transplants have become a life-saving procedure for many individuals with blood disorders, certain cancers, and immune system diseases. Dubai has emerged as a medical hub for this advanced treatment, offering state-of-the-art facilities and highly experienced medical professionals. On average, bone marrow transplant cost in Dubai ranges anywhere from USD 50,000 to USD 1,50,000.
In this blog, we will discuss the bone marrow transplant procedure in Dubai, including the cost, types of transplants, and what you need to consider before undergoing the treatment.
What is a Bone Marrow Transplant?
A bone marrow transplant replaces damaged or diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells. Bone marrow, the soft tissue inside bones, produces blood cells essential for carrying oxygen, fighting infections, and helping blood to clot. A transplant is often needed for conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood or bone marrow disorders.
What are the Different Types of Bone Marrow Transplants?
In Dubai, patients can access the following types of bone marrow transplants:
Autologous Transplant
This involves using the patient’s stem cells, collected before chemotherapy or radiation. The doctor reintroduces the healthy cells into the body after the intensive treatment. Autologous transplants are common for patients undergoing chemotherapy for conditions like lymphoma or multiple myeloma.
Allogeneic Transplant
Stem cells are collected from a donor, who could be a family member or an unrelated donor, depending on compatibility. This type is recommended when the patient’s bone marrow is severely compromised. It is required for conditions like leukemia, aplastic anemia, and genetic blood disorders such as thalassemia. A donor match is critical to prevent graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), where the donor cells attack the patient’s body.
Umbilical Cord Blood Transplant
In this type of transplant, stem cells are taken from an umbilical cord immediately after the baby is delivered. These stem cells reproduce into mature, functioning blood cells quicker and more effectively than stem cells taken from the bone marrow of another child or adult. The stem cells are then tested, typed, counted, and frozen until they are required for a transplant.
Haploidentical Transplant
This involves a donor who is a half-match to the patient, often a parent or child. Recent advances have made this procedure safer and more common.
How is Bone Marrow Transplant Performed?
The bone marrow transplant process includes the following steps:
Pre-Transplant Preparation
- Includes extensive testing to assess overall health.
- Patients receive radiation therapy or chemotherapy to destroy unhealthy bone marrow.
Stem Cell Collection
- For an autologous transplant, stem cells are harvested from the patient’s blood or bone marrow.
- In an allogeneic transplant, the cells are received from the donor.
Transplantation
- The harvested stem cells are infused into the patient through an intravenous (IV) line.
- These new cells travel to the bone marrow and generate healthy blood cells.
Post-Transplant Recovery
- Patients stay in a sterile environment for weeks or months due to a weakened immune system.
- Regular monitoring is needed to ensure the transplant is working and to manage potential complications, such as infections or GVHD.
Why is a Bone Marrow Transplant Needed?
The aim of a bone marrow transplant is the treatment of many illnesses, including cancer. A bone marrow transplant may be required if the dosages of radiation or chemotherapy required to treat cancer are so high that the patient’s bone marrow stem cells may be permanently harmed or destroyed by the treatment. In addition, bone marrow transplants might be required if a condition has destroyed the bone marrow.
A bone marrow transplant can:
- Replace damaged or non-functioning bone marrow with healthy, functioning marrow, which is crucial for treating conditions like leukemia, aplastic anemia, and sickle cell anemia.
- Regenerate a new immune system capable of fighting existing or residual cancer cells that survive chemotherapy or radiation during the transplant.
- Restore normal bone marrow function after high doses of chemotherapy or radiation are administered to treat a malignancy.
- Replace diseased marrow with genetically healthy marrow to prevent further harm caused by genetic disorders.
Be sure to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before the procedure.
What Conditions are Treatable with Bone Marrow Transplants?
Conditions treated by bone marrow transplant are:
- Leukemia (acute and chronic)
- Lymphomas (Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s)
- Multiple myeloma
- Aplastic anemia
- Sickle cell disease
- Thalassemia
- Immunodeficiency disorders
Although patients experience diseases differently, bone marrow transplants may not be the right course of action for everyone who suffers from these diseases.
Send your queries to EdhaCare if you are suffering from any of these and we will get you an estimate for bone marrow transplant cost in Dubai.
What are the Potential Risks and Complications of Bone Marrow Transplant?
Some of the risks and complications of bone marrow transplant are:
- Infections: Due to weakened immunity post-transplant.
- Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GVHD): A serious condition where the donor cells attack the patient’s tissues (in allogeneic transplants).
- Graft Failure: When the transplanted stem cells do not produce enough new blood cells.
- Organ Damage: Due to the high doses of chemotherapy or radiation.
Despite these risks, bone marrow transplants offer life-saving potential for many individuals with otherwise untreatable conditions.
Even with these risks, bone marrow transplants can be a lifesaver for many people suffering from conditions that have no other cure.
What is the Cost of Bone Marrow Transplant in Dubai?
The cost of a bone marrow transplant in Dubai can vary depending on several factors, including the type of transplant, the hospital chosen, the patient’s condition, and the length of stay in the hospital. On average, the cost for an autologous transplant may range from USD 50,000 to USD 80,000, while an allogeneic transplant can cost anywhere between USD 100,000 and USD 150,000.
Here’s a detailed chart for bone marrow transplant cost in Dubai and other UAE cities. These are estimated ranges and can vary based on the hospital, procedure specifics, and individual patient needs.
| City | Cost of Autologous Bone Marrow Transplant | Cost of Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplant |
| Dubai | USD 50,000 to USD 80,000 | USD 1,00,000 and USD 1,50,000 |
| Abu Dhabi | USD 45,000 – USD 65,000 | USD 55,000 – USD 85,000 |
| Sharjah | USD 40,000 – USD 60,000 | USD 50,000 – USD 80,000 |
| Ajman | USD 38,000 – USD 58,000 | USD 48,000 – USD 78,000 |
| Ras Al Khaimah | USD 35,000 – USD 55,000 | USD 45,000 – USD 75,000 |
Some hospitals offer financial packages that may include pre-treatment consultations, tests, post-operative care, and follow-up visits. It is also essential to consider potential additional costs such as medication, rehabilitation, and any complications that might arise during or after the procedure.
What Factors to Consider Before Getting a Bone Marrow Transplant in Dubai?
Some of the key factors to consider before getting a bone marrow transplant in Dubai are:
Eligibility
- Doctors must conduct thorough medical evaluations to determine if patients are eligible for a bone marrow transplant, as not all individuals are candidates.
- The age of the patient, general health condition, and the type of underlying disease all play a role in determining eligibility.
Donor Compatibility
- For allogeneic transplants, finding a suitable donor is critical.
- Hospitals in Dubai can assist in donor searches, including international donor registries, to increase the chances of finding a match.
Recovery and Aftercare
- Patients recovering from a bone marrow transplant need close monitoring for several months.
- We must also ensure a sterile environment to minimize the risk of infection, as their immune system is weakened after the transplant.
Health Insurance
- Understanding the bone marrow transplant cost in Dubai is vital, as many health insurance policies may not fully cover the expenses.
- It is important to verify your coverage and explore alternative payment methods if needed.
Which Dubai Hospitals Perform Bone Marrow Transplant?
Dubai hospitals are increasingly recognized for their expertise in performing bone marrow transplants, offering advanced treatments for adult and pediatric patients. The top hospitals have advanced facilities and experienced medical teams specializing in hematology and oncology.
Some of the well-known hospitals include:
American Hospital, Dubai
American Hospital, Dubai, is proficient in performing specialized treatments and procedures, including bone marrow transplantation.
The hospital performed the first BMT procedure on a 63-year-old Nigerian man who was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. He received autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation in October 2021. After the procedure, he made great progress and was released from the hospital in seven days. His recovery was impressive. His follow-up visits at the outpatient clinic displayed excellent recovery in his general clinical and physical state.
Al Zahra Hospital, Dubai
Al Zahra Hospital, Dubai, is accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI) and also holds various prestigious certifications from international accreditation bodies around the world. The hospital has a team proficient in performing bone marrow transplants.
Mediclinic City Hospital, Dubai
Mediclinic City Hospital, Dubai, offers a comprehensive bone marrow transplant program with advanced technology and a specialized team.
Burjeel Hospital, Dubai
Burjeel Hospital, Dubai, is known for its high-quality medical care, including bone marrow transplant services, with experienced specialists.
King’s College Hospital London, Dubai
King’s College Hospital London, Dubai offers bone marrow transplants in collaboration with its London branch, ensuring high standards of care.
These hospitals are equipped with the latest medical technology and provide comprehensive support services to ensure the success of bone marrow transplants. The availability of international donor registries and advanced treatment protocols have contributed to the success of allogeneic transplants in Dubai.
Why Choose Dubai for Bone Marrow Transplants?
You can get the following services in Dubai hospitals:
World-Class Medical Facilities
The internationally accredited hospitals offering cutting-edge technology and world-class facilities compliment the bone marrow transplant cost in Dubai.
Experienced Medical Professionals
Dubai has attracted skilled and experienced hematologists, oncologists, and transplant surgeons from across the globe. Their expertise ensures high-quality care and better outcomes for patients.
Multilingual Support
Hospitals in Dubai cater to a diverse population, offering support in multiple languages. This makes it easier for international patients to navigate their treatment journey in Dubai.
Comprehensive Post-Operative Care
Dubai’s healthcare system offers extensive follow-up care and rehabilitation services. These services are critical for patients recovering from such a complex procedure.
Conclusion
Undergoing a bone marrow transplant is a significant medical procedure that requires careful planning, financial preparation, and medical expertise. Dubai’s healthcare system offers advanced medical technology, highly qualified professionals, and comprehensive care for patients seeking this life-saving treatment. With a growing reputation as a global healthcare destination, Dubai is becoming an increasingly popular choice for a bone marrow transplant.
If you or a loved one is considering a bone marrow transplant in Dubai, contact EdhaCare. We will provide you with all the options and get an estimate for the cost of a bone marrow transplant in Dubai.
FAQs
1. Is bone marrow transplant 100% successful?
No, bone marrow transplants are not always 100% successful. The success rate may depend on various factors, such as the patient’s health, the type of transplant, the donor’s match, etc.
2. Can I live without my bone marrow?
No, you cannot live without your bone marrow. It is a vital organ that produces blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
3. Is donating bone marrow painful?
Donating bone marrow is not as painful as many people think. The procedure includes a bone marrow aspiration which is similar to a blood donation, or a peripheral blood stem cell collection, that feels like a series of blood donations.
4. How many times can I donate bone marrow?
You can donate bone marrow multiple times, as long as your health allows it. However, there are typically waiting periods between donations.
5. Can you live 20 years after a bone marrow transplant?
Yes, it is possible to live 20 years or more after a bone marrow transplant. Many people who receive successful transplants live long and healthy lives.
6. Who is the best bone marrow donor?
The best bone marrow donor is typically a sibling with a perfect match, but other family members or unrelated donors can also be suitable. Doctors sometimes use umbilical cord blood stem cells as a donor cell source.