The Device Dilemma: Best Practices for Stem Cell Infusion in Patients Undergoing Hematopoietic Cell Transplantion

Topic Significance & Study Purpose/Background/Rationale Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation (HCT) is a primary treatment modality employed for many types of hematologic malignancies and some autoimmune disorders. Several types of devices can be used for HCT including implanted ports, tunneled and non-tunneled central catheters. Assumptions exist, however, that implanted ports may lead to higher rates of infection and impede engraftment. The primary aim of this study is to assess the relationship between using a port or other devices for HCT and the success of engraftment. Secondly, demographic and clinical variables will be identified that estimate the likelihood of engraftment. Finally, a detailed assessment of benefits and challenges will be completed on the presence of ports and patients undergoing HCT. Methods, Intervention, & Analysis We will target 100 cases; however, the final sample will depend on the analysis. The sample for this study will be comprised of historical cases of adult patients who received allogeneic HCT at City of Hope (COH). Cases will be extracted from the COH data repository that is prepared for the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR) database. Data will be analyzed over the past five years beginning 01/01/2018 through 05/31/2023. Patients who received HCT infusion through a port will be compared to patients who received their HCT using a different type of central line. Time to engraftment and engraftment failures will be evaluated in the two groups. Findings & Interpretation The chart review and patient variables will be interpreted to determine if the type of device used to infuse HCT impacts engraftment in addition to other aspects of the patients transplant course. Discussion & Implications This study aims to contribute to literature where there is no specific support for the type of device that is best for infusion of HCT. There are preferences but limited literature to support the use of specific devices.