Current thawing and infusion practice of cryopreserved cord blood: the impact on graft quality, recipient safety, and transplantation outcomes

Methods of handling, thawing, and infusion of cord blood (CB) products vary substantially among thaw/transplant centers (TCs). This review 1) compares currently available CB product types and thaw methods recommended by CB banks (CBBs), 2) discusses causes of inconsistency in thaw method application at TCs, 3) advises elements to consider in thaw method approval or selection at the TC, 4) provides a procedural template for the traditional thaw methods, and 5) suggests acceptable time from product thaw to infusion and other considerations for safe infusion. It also compares postinfusion adverse reaction and engraftment data as functions of thaw methods. Remarks and suggestions made throughout this review are: 1) not intended to supersede manufacturer's instructions but meant to support the standardization of preparative procedures recommended by CBBs and 2) intended to help TCs to investigate relevant quality issues and handle challenges, especially when the TC is unable to follow recommendations due to foreseeable technical, quality, and/or clinical factors.