What is Bone Marrow Transplant?
A bone marrow transplant (BMT)—also known as a stem cell transplant—is a life-saving treatment for patients with blood cancers like leukaemia, lymphoma, and other serious blood or immune disorders such as aplastic anaemia. The procedure involves replacing damaged or diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells, sourced from:
- The patient (autologous transplant),
- A compatible donor (allogeneic transplant), or
- An identical twin (syngeneic transplant).
The transplant is preceded by high-dose chemotherapy and/or radiation (conditioning) to eliminate diseased cells and prepare the body. The healthy stem cells are then infused through a central line—similar to a blood transfusion.
This advanced therapy restores blood cell production and immune function, potentially offering long-term remission or cure. Allogeneic transplants also leverage the graft-versus-cancer effect, in which donor cells help eliminate residual cancer.
Why Choose India for Bone Marrow Transplant?
India—especially Tier 1 private hospitals in Delhi NCR like Apollo Hospitals (Delhi), Fortis Memorial Research Institute (Gurugram), BLK-Max Hospital (Delhi), and Max Super Speciality Hospital (Saket)—has become a hub for bone marrow transplants due to:
- Experienced transplant teams with US/UK-trained haematologists and oncologists.
- Cutting-edge facilities including stem cell labs, HEPA-filtered isolation units, and molecular diagnostic support.
- High success rates: 60–85% nationally, with top centers achieving >90% for many indications.
- Comprehensive international care: visa support, Multilingual staff, donor coordination, and long-term follow-up.
Most importantly, India offers this life-saving treatment at one-tenth the cost compared to the US or Europe, making it an accessible option without compromising safety or outcomes.
Cost & Duration Summary
Average Cost in India: USD 20,000 – 30,000
Hospital Stay Required: 3 – 6 weeks
Post-Treatment Stay in India: 3 – 6 months (for follow-ups, recovery, and immune rebuilding)