Factors associated with blood cord unit bankability: an analysis of a 15-year-long case series

This study aims to identify factors associated with the concentration of stem cells in umbilical cord blood, so increasing the probability of bankability, focusing on the possible implications in terms of obstetric and resources management. This is a retr ospective study conducted in the Obstetric Units of two Italian Hospitals in Montebelluna and Castelfranco Veneto. Study has been conducted on cord blood units banked between 1999 and 2015. Data on medical histories and clinical characteristics of mother and baby have been retrieved via a retrospect ive examination of medical records. A total of 869 cord blood units were studied. At multivariable analysis, in agreement with literature, birthweight and placental weight have been found to be associated with higher concentration of total nucleated cells. As additional factor, amount of fluid infus ed was associated with cord blood units’ count. This study is the first one to clearly identify the role of fluid infusion on cord blood units’ counts in addition to placental weight and delivery. Some non-modifiable features can help in predicting bankability from pre-natal aspects to factors m ore related with obstetric management is suggested.
Source: Cell and Tissue Banking - Category: Stem Cells Source Type: research