Stem Cells Banking

Umbilical Cord Blood Storage: From Collection to Clinical Application

The storage of umbilical cord blood offers families a unique opportunity for future medical treatments. By collecting and storing stem cells from umbilical cord blood, access to stem cell therapies is made possible. The FamiCord Group is the leading provider in Europe, boasting unparalleled experience in supplying materials for both hematopoietic transplants and innovative experimental therapies — all while adhering to the highest quality standards. A complex process of collection, processing, and storage ensures that the stem cells remain viable for potential future use. Families can trust that their cord blood is safely preserved and represents a valuable resource when medical treatments are needed.

1
Information and decision
Expectant parents can gather information about the possibility of umbilical cord blood storage from various sources. These include medical professionals, prenatal courses, as well as online and print media.
2
Contract signing
If the parents decide to collect umbilical cord blood, they sign a contract with a cord blood bank authorized to collect cord blood at the hospital where the birth is planned. The required documents also include a medical history. The parents will receive a special collection kit that they must bring to the hospital.
3
Collection at birth
The collection of umbilical cord blood and other perinatal tissues is performed at the hospital by trained medical staff. The cord blood is collected after the baby is born and the umbilical cord is clamped. Typically, a sample of the mother’s blood is also taken for diagnostic testing.
4
Shipping to the laboratory
After collection, the umbilical cord blood and other biological materials are sent to the laboratory by courier. This must be done within 72 to a maximum of 96 hours, depending on local regulations.
5
Processing and testing
In a certified laboratory, the umbilical cord blood is prepared for freezing (cryopreservation), and diagnostic tests are performed to measure the key parameters.
6
Cryopreservation
Umbilical cord blood samples (units) and other biological materials collected at birth are stored in special cryotanks at temperatures below -180 degrees Celsius.
7
Release for treatment
If therapeutic use of the stored samples is required, the parents contact the FamiCord Group to organize the process of releasing the samples from the bank to the clinic.

The FamiCord Group handles every aspect of umbilical cord blood storage, from collection to release for transplant clinics. Our commitment to quality and safety means that each step is carefully monitored and controlled. Additionally, the entire process is overseen by independent international and national auditors to ensure that the highest industry standards are met. Families can trust that at the FamiCord Group, everything necessary is done to securely preserve the stem cells, ensuring they are available when needed.