The University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing specialized healthcare delivery with the June 2025 edition of its Hospital Grand Rounds, themed “Blood and Bone Marrow Transplantation in UPTH: A Multidisciplinary Approach.”

The event brought together healthcare professionals from across departments to discuss the hospital’s preparedness to launch its Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) program—a groundbreaking move aimed at transforming the management of hematological conditions in the region.

In the lead presentation, Dr. Wodo Emmanuel from the Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion outlined UPTH’s significant progress in establishing a functional stem cell transplant program. He emphasized that despite Nigeria having the highest global burden of sickle cell disease, access to HSCT remains limited, with only two functional centers nationwide.

Dr. Wodo revealed that UPTH is set to change this narrative, having already equipped the facility with essential tools—including an Apheresis machine—and trained several staff members internationally. He announced that patient selection will begin in July, with the hospital aiming to conduct its first autologous transplant between October and November 2025.

The importance of infection prevention was also highlighted. Dr. Alex-Wele emphasized that transplant patients are highly immunocompromised and prone to severe infections. She outlined critical safety protocols, including the use of positive pressure rooms with HEPA filtration, strict hygiene enforcement, and restricted access to sensitive areas. She further stressed that both healthcare workers and visitors must strictly adhere to infection control guidelines to protect patients.

Dr. Chizaram Onyeaghala explored the types and timing of post-transplant infections, noting that bacterial infections are most common in the early phase, while viral and fungal infections tend to occur later. He urged staff to adopt a preventive strategy, which includes prophylactic medications, early detection, and continuous monitoring.

The nursing team played a pivotal role in the discussions, presenting the holistic contributions of nurses throughout the transplant journey. From pre-transplant assessments to post-discharge care, nurses are central to medication management, patient education, emotional support, and infection prevention. They emphasized that the nurse’s role is constant, compassionate, and vital to patient recovery.

Mental health was another key focus. Dr. Iberedem David, representing Dr. Metu Izuchukwu from the Department of Psychiatry, addressed the psychological impact of blood and bone marrow transplantation. She noted that up to 40% of patients experience anxiety or depression at various stages of treatment. These emotional challenges—rooted in fear, uncertainty, and family-related stress—can affect treatment outcomes. Dr. David called for early mental health screening, individualized interventions, and continuous psychosocial support for both patients and their families.

Pharmacists also emphasized their crucial role in the transplant process. They discussed responsibilities ranging from chemotherapy drug preparation and interaction monitoring to patient counseling. The team stressed that accurate dosing, timely administration, and medication education are essential in preventing complications and improving treatment success.

The session ended with widespread appreciation for the hospital’s leadership, particularly the management team, for their support and vision in driving the transplant initiative. Staff commended the administration’s role in funding training, procuring advanced technology, and fostering a collaborative environment.

With this multidisciplinary approach already in motion, UPTH is poised to become one of the leading transplant centers in Nigeria and the West African sub-region.

As the hospital gears up to perform its first stem cell transplant, this Grand Round stands as a testament to what can be achieved through strategic planning, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to patient-centered care.

— Report by O. Okpalo, Ekemini O, and O.O.A.