How are stem cell transplants used in oncology?

Stem cell transplants are used in oncology to help replace the healthy cells damaged by chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Stem cells are normally found in the bone marrow. If you receive chemotherapy or radiation treatments, you may need to have more stem cells injected into your bone marrow to help your body begin to manufacture healthy blood. A stem cell transplant can help you undergo a more intense, and therefore more effective, chemotherapy or radiation schedule.