What is a stem cell transplant?

The stem cells corresponding to each part of the body provide instructions for how to grow that part. For Jordan's kind of stem cell transplant, bone marrow was drawn from his hip bone using a long needle. The stem cells were separated out and frozen. Jordan's immune system was then partially destroyed by high-dose chemotherapy, and his stem cells were reintroduced to his body in the hopes that they will multiply and build a healthy immune system.

Most stem cell transplants of this type are autologous, meaning that the patient is both the donor and the recipient. Only cells are transplanted; the procedure does not involve the replacement of any organs or other body parts. Although the transplant itself does not involve surgery, Jordan has had many surgical procedures to implant and remove ports and catheters used to inject and draw fluids and drugs.

How often are stem cell transplants performed? What are the chances for success?

Although about 2.5 million people worldwide have had stem cell transplants for various diseases (usually certain cancers), only between 15 and 20 people have had stem cell transplants to treat Crohn's disease. Jordan was the youngest patient in the United States -- and the first at Duke University -- to undergo the procedure as a treatment for Crohn's disease.

Each patient who has previously had a stem cell transplant for Crohn's disease has experienced almost complete remission. Reports from the patients and their medical teams continue to be very encouraging. The patients have experienced significant improvements, and many have been able to return to lives essentially free of the symptoms of the disease. Many have been able to dramatically reduce or eliminate their dependence on daily medication, and the resulting side effects. The younger patients have experienced growth spurts, as their bodies are relieved of the stress of the disease and receive proper nutrition.

When and where was Jordan's transplant performed?

Jordan's transplant was performed on June 2, 2005, by a medical team at the Pediatic Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Transplant Program at Duke University Medical Center. This team includes hematology and oncology specialists, gastroenterology specialists, and other support staff. Jordan and a parent travelled to Duke on April 2, 2005, and returned home to Roanoke, Va., on July 31, 2005.

How long does the stem cell transplant take?

The transplant itself (the reintroduction of Jordan's previously harvested stem cells to his body) took only 30 minutes, but the entire transplant protocol took about four months. During that time, Jordan lived in the hospital and in an apartment near the hospital. As his health permitted, he participated in distance learning and received homebound tutoring to keep up his high school studies. It will take about one year for Jordan's immune system to completely rebuild itself. Jordan will also be monitored by doctors in Roanoke, and at the treatment site, for routine checkups.

What risks and side effects are associated with a stem cell transplant?

The primary side effects of the transplant come from the chemotherapy and other drugs involved in the protocol, and not the transplant itself. Jordan has experienced nausea, loss of appetite, and hair loss. Because Jordan's immune system was partially destroyed, he is at an increased risk of infection. To guard against this, he was hospitalized in a special room with a positive air pressure system and high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration. Even after returning to Roanoke, his exposure to people and places is restricted. Although all medical procedures carry some risk, and stem cell transplants carry a higher risk of complications than some other procedures, the risk of death from an autologous stem cell transplant is still extremely low.

How much will the stem cell transplant cost?

For more information about the costs associated with the transplant, see About the Fund.

Aren't stem cell transplants very controversial?

The political controversy surrounding stem cells relates to the use of animal or fetal tissue to clone embryos for research. In Jordan's transplant, like in most stem cell transplants of this type, Jordan received his own stem cells.