The freezer’s temperature sensors and safeguards both failed, causing the loss of stem cells in long-term storage, according to a Sept. 25 statement from the hospital. Since the malfunction, the hospital has replaced the freezer, upgraded the alert system and is reviewing all power sources.
The hospital apologized for the incident, which has not put any child’s health at risk. Stem cells, often used to replenish living cells, can still be harvested from patients if needed, James Stein, MD, CMO of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, told ABC affiliate KABC.
The hospital also apologized for their initial notification of the malfunction, delivered via letter addressed to the young patients. The hospital said it is reviewing the notification process and has set up a phone line for parent questions.
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