Dr. Arnon KarniHead of the Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Department
Plasmapheresis – an effective treatment method used at the Top Ihilov Clinic
Blood carries life to the entire organism. Any changes in the composition of blood affect the organs, tissues, and overall condition of the patient; on the other hand, diseases influence the blood and its composition. The Top Ihilov Clinic widely employs a very effective treatment method for many diseases – plasmapheresis.
What is it?
Plasmapheresis is a procedure in which blood is separated into plasma and formed blood cells. A certain volume of blood (up to 450 ml) is taken from the patient. Plasma (the liquid part of the blood) is separated from this blood, most often by centrifugation. The plasma is disposed of, and the erythrocyte mass is transfused (returned) to the patient.
Plasmapheresis can be donor-based, for the purpose of plasma collection, or therapeutic.
What is plasmapheresis used for?
The fact is that all toxins, pathological elements, antigens, antibodies, poisons, etc., accumulate in the plasma of the blood. By removing parts of this “sick” liquid blood from the bloodstream, the doctor also removes all harmful products of pathology. Plasma quickly regenerates, but the new plasma does not carry harmful substances; it is healthy plasma. The cellular part of the blood is returned to the patient (erythrocytes, platelets, leukocytes, etc.). To prevent a decrease in the circulating blood volume (CBV) during the procedure, the patient is transfused with plasma substitutes or intravenous infusion solutions. Plasmapheresis is classified as an apheresis therapy method. With the help of plasmapheresis, blood is purified, and some pathological products are removed even from the cells of tissues, skin, and organs.
When is plasmapheresis prescribed?
The range of diseases for which plasmapheresis is prescribed is extraordinarily wide:
- metabolic disorders;
- immune system diseases;
- furunculosis;
- septic conditions;
- psoriasis;
- alcoholic delirium (“delirium tremens”);
- poisonings;
- toxic infections;
- preparation of the patient for surgery associated with blood loss, etc.
In recent years, plasmapheresis has been used for rejuvenation, recovery after severe diseases, and much more.
The number of procedures depends on the patient's condition and the treatment goals. Often, noticeable improvements occur after just one session; sometimes the procedure is repeated up to ten times, according to a schedule developed by the specialist. In most cases, plasmapheresis is part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
The technical facilities of the Top Ihilov Clinic are so good that there is the possibility of performing lymphocyte apheresis, erythrocyte apheresis, platelet apheresis, and plasma exchange.
Cost of plasmapheresis in Israel
The cost of plasmapheresis at Top Ihilov can vary significantly depending on the specifics of the procedure and the goals set by the doctors prescribing it. To obtain current information about the cost of plasmapheresis, please leave a request in the form below. Within a day, our staff will contact you and answer all your questions.
- Autoimmune diseases
- Kidney diseases
- Hyperthyroidism
- Glomerulonephritis
- Diabetic angiopathy
- Myeloma
Advantages of plasmapheresis in Israel
- The procedure is performed by experienced specialists who monitor any changes in the patient's condition during plasmapheresis.
- Plasmapheresis is carried out on the latest equipment, which significantly enhances the quality of its execution.
- Patients are placed in comfortable, cozy, and clean rooms equipped with the latest technology.
- Care for patients is guaranteed by experienced medical staff.
- All everyday issues of the patient are resolved by the staff of the International Department of Top Ihilov.