Introduction
Back complaints are common and need to be considered on a case-by-case basis at both recruitment and CT/work-up stages.
General guidance for adult volunteer donor (NA for maternal donor (cord blood donation))
In general, donors undergoing a bone marrow collection run the risk of exacerbating pre-existing mechanical back conditions due to the shearing forces applied to the lower back and pelvis during the procedure. However, many such donors may donate by PBSC.
Donors with non-mechanical inflammatory back conditions, particularly those associated with autoimmune disease, such as ankylosing spondylitis, should not donate by either route.
Individual guidance
Common subgroups of back complaints are given separate guidance below:
- Mild, occasional episodes related to exertion (incl sciatica). Minimal impact on activities of daily living and occasional use of medication
- Severe chronic back pain. Impacts on activities of daily living.
- History of current or past herniated intevertebral disc
- History of back surgery
- Scoliosis
- History of fracture, dislocation or instability