Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Program

Quality Assurance and Cryopreservation
The Northwest Tissue Services's Stem Cell Processing Laboratory is where stem cells are evaluated for engraftment potential and cryopreserved.

A NTS Stem Cell technologist assays the stem cells by flow cytometry following standards recommended by the International Society for Hematotherapy and Graft Engineering (ISHAGE). CD34 test results are usually available within three hours after stem cell collection.

The technologist aseptically processes the stem cells under a laminar airflow hood. The stem cells are cryopreserved in a controlled-rate freezer and stored in the vapor phase of liquid nitrogen.

Upon request, the Northwest Tissue Services also provides processing, storage, and assays of stem cells collected by outside healthcare facilities. These stem cells will be returned to the collection facility for reinfusion.

Enhancing Patient Care Through Comprehensive Reporting
Drawing on our expertise in analysis, quality assurance, cryopreservation, and collection, the Blood Center provides extensive reporting on each patient. We also maintain complete database records on all patients as well as a collective summary record of patient results.