RCC receives cryo freeze machine for bone marrow transplantation

Thiruvananthapuram: In a significant boost to paediatric cancer care, Regional Cancer Centre (RCC) in Thiruvananthapuram has received a state-of-the-art cryo freeze machine essential for bone marrow transplantation (BMT) procedures. The equipment was donated under the ‘gift a dream’ initiative of Kanal Innovations Charitable Trust, with financial support from Guidehouse India Private Ltd.

The machine was formally handed over at a function held at RCC on Thursday. The event was inaugurated by health minister K Muraleedharan. Bone marrow transplantation plays a crucial role in the treatment of serious illnesses such as leukaemia, lymphoma and neuroblastoma. The procedure involves eliminating cancerous cells through high-dose chemotherapy and restoring healthy blood-forming cells, offering many children the possibility of remission and a return to normal life.

According to RCC officials, the newly acquired cryo-freeze machine will significantly enhance the preservation and processing of stem cells collected during BMT procedures. By ensuring optimal storage conditions and maintaining stem cell quality, the equipment is expected to improve treatment outcomes and increase the success rate of transplants.

The facility is also expected to help RCC expand its bone marrow transplant services, reduce waiting periods and provide safer and more effective treatment to a larger number of children in the future.