Therapeutic Plasma Exchange Plasmapheresis | Benefits and Procedure
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange, also known as plasmapheresis or therapeutic apheresis, is a medical procedure that plays a crucial role in treating various conditions, particularly in adults. This procedure involves removing the plasma (the liquid component of blood) from the body and replacing it with a substitute, such as donor plasma or a special solution. Here at Purety Clinic we only use pure albumin as replacement solution. TPE is a vital treatment option for managing certain health conditions, ranging from autoimmune diseases to neurological disorders.
What is Plasma Exchange?
Plasma exchange, also known as plasmapheresis, is a medical procedure that involves the removal of plasma from the blood. Plasma is the yellowish liquid component of blood that carries water, proteins, hormones, and waste products. In the plasma exchange process, blood is drawn from the patient and passed through a machine designed to separate the plasma from the red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
After this separation, the plasma, which may contain harmful substances such as antibodies, abnormal proteins, or toxins, is discarded or replaced with a therapeutic solution (albumin). This solution could be fresh frozen plasma, a substitute plasma solution, or even saline, depending on the patient’s medical condition and treatment requirements. We have found albumin to provide excellent results without the untoward side effects of using donor plasma. The goal of the procedure is to remove the harmful components from the blood and improve the patient’s health. For adults with autoimmune diseases, neurological disorders, or certain kidney diseases, plasma exchange can be a critical treatment option, helping to prevent complications or even save lives. The procedure can be performed multiple times depending on the patient’s condition and the effectiveness of the treatment, with the potential to offer long-term relief or improved quality of life.
Plasma Exchange Plasmapheresis
How Plasma Exchange Works
The procedure involves several steps. First, blood is drawn from the patient using a needle placed in a vein. We take great care in using ultrasound guidance to make sure to perfectly align the needle as well as numb the site for patient comfort. The blood is then passed through a highly sophisticated machine that separates the plasma from the rest of the blood components, including red and white blood cells and platelets. The plasma is replaced with a substitute solution called albumin. The remaining blood cells are returned to the patient’s body. The entire process typically takes 1.5-2.5 hours.
Why Is Plasma Exchange Important?
For adults dealing with autoimmune diseases, neurological conditions, or other complex health issues, plasma exchange can be a crucial part of their treatment plan. The procedure helps remove harmful antibodies or other components from the blood that may be attacking the body. Plasma exchange has proven to be an effective treatment for conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome, myasthenia gravis, and certain kidney disorders.
Medical Conditions That Benefit from Plasma Exchange
Plasma exchange is used to treat a range of conditions, especially those involving the immune system. Some of the most common conditions that can benefit from plasma exchange include:
Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like lupus, vasculitis, and rheumatoid arthritis, where the body’s immune system attacks its own cells.
Neurological disorders: Disorders such as multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
Kidney diseases: Disorders such as nephrotic syndrome or Goodpasture syndrome, where the kidneys are affected by harmful antibodies.
There is newer literature showing TPE improving dementia, Alzheimer’s, long Covid, and even slowing the aging process.
The Benefits of Plasma Exchange
The therapeutic benefits of plasma exchange are significant, particularly for adults suffering from severe or chronic conditions. Some of the main advantages include:
Removal of harmful substances: Plasma exchange helps remove harmful antibodies, toxins, and abnormal proteins from the bloodstream.
Reduction in disease activity: For autoimmune diseases, the procedure can help reduce inflammation and the symptoms associated with the condition.
Improvement in symptoms: Many patients experience a noticeable improvement in their health after undergoing plasma exchange, including better mobility, strength, and mental clarity.
Understanding the Risks of Plasma Exchange
While plasma exchange can provide significant benefits, it is not without risks. Some potential risks and side effects include:
Infection: As with any medical procedure that involves needles or blood, there is a risk of infection at the injection site or within the bloodstream. We have never experienced this in our office.
Bleeding: Plasma exchange can affect the blood’s ability to clot, increasing the risk of bleeding. We have never experienced this in our office.
Allergic reactions: Very few patients have a histamine response to the albumin. Benadryl is provided in this case and it works very well.
The Procedure in Detail
The plasma exchange procedure process begins with an appointment where one of our doctors will assess the patient’s condition. They will determine if the procedure is appropriate and discuss any necessary preparations, including medication adjustments. During the procedure, the patient is connected to a blood collection machine, which will draw blood and separate the plasma. The entire process usually takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the patient’s condition, body habitus, and the amount of plasma that needs to be replaced. After the procedure, the patient will be given a proprietary nutrient infusion to further bolster the blood. The patient is monitored during the entire treatment by either the doctor and/or nurse. In most cases, adults recover quickly and experience a positive improvement in their condition.
Plasma Exchange Procedure
How Often is Plasma Exchange Needed?
The frequency of plasma exchange sessions depends on the patient’s specific condition and how their body responds to the treatment. Some patients may require only one or two treatments, while others may need regular sessions. We most often recommend one treatment per month for six treatments as an ideal detoxification protocol. The medical team will provide a personalized treatment plan based on the patient’s needs.
The Role of Healthcare Providers
Plasma exchange is typically carried out in a hospital or specialized clinic, under the supervision of a healthcare team. The team may include doctors, nurses, and medical technicians trained in the procedure. It is important for patients to stay in close communication with the medical team throughout the treatment process to ensure their safety and well-being. We are here for you and strive to provide personalized care at Purety Clinic throughout the entire process.
Purety Family Medical Clinic
Santa Barbara, California
When considering plasma exchange, it’s important to choose a healthcare provider with experience in the procedure. Be sure to ask about the healthcare provider’s experience and the success rates of plasma exchange treatments.
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