Definition of Stem cell harvest

Stem cell harvest: The taking of stem cells for use in cancer or other treatment. Usually these cells are taken from the patient's own bone marrow. The procedure usually involves use of a general anesthetic and an overnight hospital stay. Small cuts are made over the hipbones to allow entrance for the large needles used to puncture the bones and draw out the marrow. The marrow is frozen for later use. In some cases, stem cells from a donor are used.