How We Keep Your Collection Secure

We have developed the highest quality processing methods

Processing is a critical step in protecting stem cells and increasing the number collected from cord blood, placental blood, or placental tissue. At Lifebank, our state-of-the-art processing methods help ensure that the maximum number of stem cells are preserved for future use.

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT

Our Heparin-free Collection Process

Lifebank’s heparin-free collection process uses an FDA-recommended cell-protecting solution called citrate phosphate dextrose (CPD), which allows cells to maintain their integrity in the time between collection and processing.

Close to Three Major Airports

Our laboratories are close to three major airports that are served by every major U.S. airline. This allows our couriers to deliver collection kits to our labs as quickly and efficiently as possible.

How Red Blood Cells Affect Stem Cell Recovery Rates

Other cord blood banks may promise you the highest stem cell recovery rates, often referred to as Total Nucleated Cell (TNC) recovery. Keep in mind that if red blood cells are not removed, the TNC count may include red blood cells and other unwanted cells that have no therapeutic value, and artificially inflate the number of cells recovered. In fact, a study of cord blood units showed that some consisted of more than 40% red blood cells.² When you bank with Lifebank, your baby’s collection will contain, on average, less than 1% red blood cells.³

Red Blood Cell Removal Matters

Lifebank’s red blood cell depletion process also eliminates the need for additional processing at the time of transplant if your baby’s stem cells are ever needed. This is important because additional processing may lower the number of cells available for use. Red blood cell removal also reduces the risk of blood type incompatibility, which could lead to complications if the cord blood unit is used for a sibling or other relative.¹