Hemoperfusion

Hemoperfusion is a treatment technique in which large volumes of the patient's blood are passed over an adsorbent substance in order to remove toxic substances from the blood. Adsorption is a process in which molecules or particles adhere to a surface. In this case, the adsorbent substance is usually activated charcoal or certain resins. Hemoperfusion is used primarily to remove toxic substances from the blood of patients with drug overdose or poisoning.

Procedure

The procedure of hemoperfusion involves the passage of blood, usually anticoagulated with heparin, through a column containing the adsorbent substance. The toxins in the blood bind to the adsorbent substance and are removed from the blood. The cleansed blood is then returned to the patient.

Uses

Hemoperfusion is used in the treatment of specific drug overdoses and poisonings. It is also used in some protocols for hemodialysis and is used in conjunction with other treatments for certain autoimmune disorders.

Risks

As with any medical procedure, there are risks associated with hemoperfusion. These may include hypotension (low blood pressure), thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), leukopenia (low white blood cell count), and allergic reactions. In addition, there is a risk of infection, bleeding, and blood clots.

See also

• Hemodialysis
• Adsorption
• Toxicology