Venesection, also known as phlebotomy or bloodletting, is a medical procedure that involves the removal of a specific amount of blood from a patient’s body.
This therapeutic intervention has been practiced for centuries and is utilized in various medical conditions to alleviate symptoms and improve overall health.
Therapeutic venesection is a safe procedure to lower blood levels. If you are doing testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), you increase the body’s production of red blood cells, and polycythaemia can be a common side effect.
Polycythaemia means you have more haemoglobin (the protein in red blood cells), a higher level of hematocrit (the proportion of blood that is red cells), or more red blood cells overall. It makes your blood thicker, causing blood flow to slow down and become sluggish. Your organs may not get the blood they need to function, and you may experience some side effects. Side effects may include:
This is why it’s crucial to monitor haemoglobin and haematocrit levels while on testosterone therapy and, if necessary, follow up with therapeutic venesection. To a certain extent, testosterone is useful in enhancing endurance and strength. However, when excess red blood cells are produced due to the addition of external testosterone to the body, it can cause serious health concerns.
Those who use anabolic steroids and testosterone sometimes blast and cruise (B&C) — using heavy amounts and then going through lessening periods for optimal results. If someone is doing this, it’s especially important to get the guidance of a doctor. A professional medical doctor can keep a close eye on blood levels to prevent harm.
Therapeutic venesection is a great way to help balance haemoglobin and haematocrit levels and it takes about an hour. It is similar to donating blood, but a physician prescribes this procedure to reduce blood viscosity (thickness).
Venesection is also performed to:
Treat Hemochromatosis
Hemochromatosis is a hereditary disorder characterized by excessive iron accumulation in the body. Regular venesection can help reduce iron levels, preventing iron overload-related complications.
Manage Polycythemia Vera
Polycythemia Vera is a blood disorder characterized by the overproduction of red blood cells.
Address Porphyria Cutanea Tarda
This condition results in a buildup of porphyrins in the liver, leading to skin-related symptoms. Venesection can assist in reducing porphyrin levels and alleviating associated symptoms.
Before undergoing venesection, a medical assessment is conducted by your doctor and pathology tests ordered if needed. This evaluation helps determine the appropriateness of the procedure, identify any potential risks or contraindications, and establish the frequency and amount of blood to be removed.
Informed Consent
Informed consent is obtained from the patient, ensuring they understand the purpose, risks, benefits, and alternatives associated with venesection. This step ensures that the patient can make an informed decision about proceeding with the procedure.
Preparation
The patient is prepared for the venesection procedure, which typically involves cleansing the site where the blood will be drawn. The healthcare professional will use an antiseptic solution and aseptic technique to minimize the risk of infection.
Blood Collection
A healthcare professional will access a vein, usually in the arm, using a sterile needle. The amount of blood to be withdrawn will depend on the specific condition being treated. The collected blood is collected in a specialized container or bag.
Monitoring & Disposal
Throughout the venesection process, vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation may be monitored to ensure the patient’s safety. Once the desired amount of blood is collected, it is appropriately disposed of according to medical waste management guidelines. Post-Procedure Care
After the venesection, patients are often advised to rest and hydrate adequately. Depending on the individual, the frequency of venesection sessions may vary, and follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the patient’s progress.
We accept self-referrals, and your visit will be kept private. The procedure, where about a pint of blood is drawn, usually reduces haematocrit (thickness of blood) by roughly 3%. Sometimes, additional sessions are needed to bring blood levels fully back to normal. You’ll receive the following:
Ensure you are fully hydrated before arrival and allocate one hour for the procedure.
