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Published

October 8, 2024

Updated

October 8, 2024

How cord blood is stored for future medical use

Cord blood storage is a meticulous process that ensures the stem cells remain viable for future medical use, potentially decades after collection. The goal of cord blood banking is to preserve the valuable hematopoietic stem cells found in the blood of the umbilical cord, which can be used in life-saving treatments for a wide range of conditions, from cancers to genetic disorders. But how is cord blood stored, and what makes it such an important resource for the future?

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How cord blood is stored for future medical use

Cord blood storage is a highly specialized process that ensures the valuable stem cells collected from a newborn’s umbilical cord are preserved for future medical use. These stem cells have the potential to treat a wide range of conditions, from blood disorders and cancers to autoimmune diseases and neurological conditions. To ensure that the cord blood remains viable for years, it must be processed and stored in a way that protects the stem cells from damage and maintains their ability to regenerate healthy tissue when needed.

Once the cord blood is collected immediately after birth, it is carefully packaged and sent to a cord blood bank’s processing facility. At this stage, the cord blood is tested for any potential contaminants or issues that could affect its viability. The blood is then processed to separate the stem cells from the other components, such as plasma and red blood cells. This step is crucial because it concentrates the valuable stem cells that will be stored for future use. After processing, the stem cells are placed in special cryogenic storage containers and frozen at ultra-low temperatures.

Cryogenic storage is the most effective method for preserving cord blood stem cells for long periods. By freezing the stem cells at temperatures as low as -196°C, the cells enter a state of suspended animation, halting any biological processes that could lead to deterioration. This method ensures that the stem cells remain viable for decades, ready to be used in life-saving medical treatments when needed. In fact, research has shown that cord blood stem cells can remain viable and effective for at least 25 years when stored properly.

In the case of a medical emergency or a planned stem cell transplant, the stored cord blood can be quickly retrieved from the cord blood bank’s storage facility. A notable case involved a young girl diagnosed with leukemia. Her family had banked her cord blood at birth, and years later, the stored stem cells were used in a successful transplant. The ability to access her stored cord blood quickly and easily made all the difference in her treatment and recovery, highlighting the importance of proper cord blood storage.

Anja Health offers advanced cord blood storage services that ensure your baby’s stem cells are preserved safely and securely. Their state-of-the-art facilities use cryogenic freezing to maintain the stem cells’ viability for future medical use. Anja Health also provides placenta and cord tissue banking, expanding the potential treatments available to your family. With affordable payment plans and a commitment to quality, Anja Health makes cord blood banking an accessible and valuable option for families.

Once stored, the cord blood remains in cryogenic storage until it is needed for a medical treatment. When the time comes, the cord blood is carefully thawed and prepared for use. The stem cells are typically administered to the patient through an intravenous infusion, where they begin the process of regenerating healthy tissue. Whether it’s for treating blood disorders, cancers, or other medical conditions, the stored cord blood is a powerful tool that can provide life-saving treatments for your child or other family members.

Cord blood storage is a vital part of ensuring that these valuable stem cells are available when needed for medical treatments. By banking your baby’s cord blood with Anja Health, you are investing in the future health of your family and giving them access to cutting-edge stem cell therapies. With secure cryogenic storage, personalized service, and affordable options, Anja Health ensures that your baby’s cord blood will be ready whenever it’s needed. Get your kit today to secure your baby’s future health!

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