Step 3: T-Cell Collection
The T-cell collection process is known as apheresis. Apheresis is a special way to collect certain blood cells that your doctors need for your treatment.
During this procedure, you will be attached to a machine via your central line. Your blood will get pulled through a machine that separates out the required cells and then returns the rest of your blood back to you. It’s a bit like donating blood, but instead of keeping all your blood, the machine only takes out the part we need.
The process usually takes about four to five hours. You’ll be awake and can relax in a bed during the procedure. We suggest you pack a book, tablet, or laptop to keep you busy if you would like. Please also bring headphones if you plan to watch videos to minimize disturbance to other patients.
Please arrange for someone to drive you home after your T-cell collection is complete as you will not be able to drive.
Once the T-cells are collected through the apheresis machine:
- They are sent to a manufacturing facility where they are changed to become CAR T-cells.
- These cells are changed to target and destroy cancer cells.
- It can take several weeks to make enough CAR T-cells for your treatment.
You may need other treatment, such as chemotherapy before we put the new CAR T-cells back into your body. This is known as “bridging treatment” – to bridge the gap between collection and infusion of your new cells. The reason for bridging treatment is to help control your cancer, if needed. Not every person needs this so your doctor will discuss it with you if required.
