The University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) is set to begin blood and bone marrow transplantation, marking a significant milestone in the hospital’s efforts to advance specialised healthcare services.
This development was announced during the June 2024 edition of the Hospital Grand Rounds, themed “Blood and Bone Marrow Transplantation in UPTH: A Multidisciplinary Approach.”
The event gathered healthcare professionals from various departments to discuss the hospital’s readiness to launch its Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) programme, which aims to improve the management of haematological conditions in the region.
Dr. Wodo Emmanuel from the Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion highlighted UPTH’s notable progress in establishing a functional stem cell transplant programme.
He pointed out that, despite Nigeria having the highest global burden of sickle cell disease, access to HSCT remains limited, with only two operational centres nationwide.
Dr. Wodo announced that UPTH is set to alter this situation, having already equipped the facility with essential tools—including an Apheresis machine—and trained several staff members internationally.
Patient selection is expected to commence in July, with the hospital aiming to perform its first autologous transplant between October and November 2025.
The importance of infection prevention was also emphasised during the event. Dr. Alex-Wele highlighted that transplant patients are highly immunocompromised and susceptible to severe infections. She outlined essential safety protocols, including the use of positive pressure rooms with HEPA filtration, strict hygiene practices, and limited access to sensitive areas.
The nursing team demonstrated the holistic contributions of nurses throughout the transplant process, from pre-transplant assessments to post-discharge care. Mental health was another significant focus, with Dr. Iberedem David discussing the psychological impact of blood and bone marrow transplantation.
Pharmacists also highlighted their vital role in the transplant process, discussing responsibilities from chemotherapy drug preparation to patient counselling.
With this multidisciplinary approach already underway, UPTH is positioned to become one of the top transplant centres in Nigeria and the West African sub-region.
The hospital’s leadership, especially the management team, has been praised for their support and vision in advancing the transplant programme. As UPTH prepares to carry out its first stem cell transplant, this development signifies a new era in healthcare delivery in the region.
