Umbilical cord blood banking

Umbilical cord blood used to treat different diseases, though not all, and there are many studies ongoing. Umbilical cord blood banking usually refers to the collection and preservation of the stem cells extracted from an umbilical cord post the delivery of a baby. The blood includes the stem cells which help in the generation of new blood cells. These stem cells are actually useful of treating certain life-taking diseases Leukemia, Aplastic Anaemia, Autism, Type I Diabetes, Cerebral Palsy, Immunodeficiency and other cell related disease. Features of Cord Blood Cells The Cord Blood cells’ are as follows:  It is a wealthy source of stem cells The cord blood is supposed to hold ten times more stem cells as compared to those found in bone marrow.  Developmental source As stem cells in the cord blood are comparatively younger than bone marrow stem cells thus they have the increasing potential to regenerate the cord blood cells.  Pain involved Extracting cord blood from the umbilical cord is a quick and painless method. However, make sure that the whole process is complete in no less than 10 minutes post delivery. Steps involved in banking cord blood The banking process of the cord blood is:  After the delivery procedure is complete, the umbilical cord is at first clamped and removed in a usual manner. It is suggested not to delay in removing the umbilical cord as delayed removal will have a negative effect on the cells and its capabilities.  The medical professional pierce the umbilical cord with a needle. The blood is then extracted and collected into a bag. The quantity usually does not exceed 1-5 ounces.  The process ends with the shipping of blood to cord blood bank. As soon as it reaches the destination it is examined and cryo-preserved for future use.