Therapeutic apheresis is an outpatient procedure where the patient’s medical history is reviewed, and necessary blood tests are performed to assess their condition and suitability for apheresis. A central venous catheter or a large-bore peripheral venous catheter is typically then inserted into the patient’s vein. This access point allows blood to be drawn from the body and returned after processing. The catheter is connected to an apheresis machine, which is equipped with special filters and centrifugation mechanisms to separate blood components.

Unlike in most clinics, where during therapeutic apheresis, the plasma containing toxins, antibodies, or other harmful substances is removed from the patient’s blood and replaced with a replacement fluid, such as albumin or saline, our specialized partner clinic uses specialized filters or adsorbent columns within the apheresis machine to selectively remove targeted substances from the patient’s plasma while returning the rest of the plasma components back to the patient. These filters or columns are designed to capture specific substances such as autoantibodies, immune complexes, or toxins, depending on the patient’s condition, and the remaining blood components, along with the filtered plasma, are then returned to the patient’s bloodstream. Sometimes, medications or anticoagulants may be added to prevent clotting during the process.

Throughout the procedure, the patient’s vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation, are closely monitored. The medical team also monitors for any adverse reactions or complications. Once the therapeutic apheresis is completed, the catheter is disconnected, and the patient is discharged.