Plasma exchange is performed using a machine called a blood cell separator, which can separate blood into its various parts. The machine separates and removes the plasma portion of your blood and gives you back replacement plasma. This will normally be a processed donor plasma product, although occasionally fresh plasma will be used. The remaining parts of your blood, including red cells and white cells are returned to you during the treatment.
In order to carry out a plasma exchange, a needle will be put into a large vein in each arm. If the veins in your arms are not suitable, you may need to have a special central line inserted into a larger vein in your neck or groin under a local or general anaesthetic.
Red cell exchange is performed using a machine called a blood cell separator, which can separate blood into its various parts. The machine separates and removes the red cell portion of your blood and gives you back replacement red cells. The remaining part of your blood, including white cells and plasma, will be returned to you unaltered during the treatment.
In order to carry out a plasma exchange, a needle will be put into a large vein in each arm. If the veins in your arms are not suitable, you may need to have a special central line inserted into a larger vein in your neck or groin under a local or general anaesthetic.
