CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA, USA: The University of South Carolina is celebrating a significant accomplishment in its bone and marrow transplant program, notably distinguishing itself from other centers nationwide. New data indicates that the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) has achieved survival rates for allogeneic transplants significantly higher than the national average, a remarkable feat according to experts. This evaluation was derived from a study by the International Center for Bone and Marrow Transplant Research, which assessed 172 stem transplant centers across the United States between 2020 and 2022.
Among the evaluated centers, MUSC was one of only 12 that exceeded expectations. Dr. Michelle Hudspeth, director of MUSC’s bone and marrow transplant program, highlighted the uniqueness of allogeneic transplants, which involve using stem cells from healthy donors to combat conditions such as blood cancers, sickle cell disease, and bone marrow failure. On average, MUSC performs between 200 and 220 transplants per year, marking a transformative process for patients whose health was previously precarious.
Dr. Hudspeth noted the rigorous procedures involved in these transplants, where patients must endure intensive chemotherapy and radiation therapies, often worsening their condition before any improvement is seen. This intricate and high-risk process necessitates a highly skilled team to manage these critically ill patients — a testament to the proficiency and dedication of MUSC’s team during one of the most challenging periods in recent history, the COVID-19 pandemic.
Furthermore, MUSC stands out as one of a select few in the nation offering both adult and pediatric transplant programs, exemplifying its comprehensive approach to patient care. These accomplishments not only reflect the center’s excellence in patient outcomes but also its resilience and unwavering commitment in navigating through unprecedented challenges.
