Patients will receive extensive guidance and educational materials about the specifics of transplantation, including the evaluation process, treatment side effects, a realistic timeline, lodging options, financial services and post-transplant issues.  Educational materials are reviewed with the patient and caregivers for both autologous transplant and allogeneic transplant.

Patients and caregivers will report to the MUSC Transplant Center one to two days before the scheduled transplant.  During that time, patients will have a central venous catheter placed in an outpatient procedure to facilitate infusion of cells and medicines.

The transplant will be done on an outpatient basis, unless it’s medically necessary for the patient to remain in the hospital.  Patients will be referred to a local for lodging.  To plan for lodging in conjunction with the transplant, contact MUSC Guest Relations at 843-792-3122.

Patients should plan to bring enough comfortable clothes and shoes for two weeks, including shirts with buttons that enable easy access to the catheter.  In addition, patients need to bring their own personal care items, such as shampoo, soap, new toothbrush, electric razor, lotion and cosmetics.

Entertainment and inspirational items, including books, magazines, puzzles, games, music, music players, knitting and needlework are welcome.  However, do not bring items of great value.

No fresh fruits, flowers or pets are allowed in transplant rooms.