Plasmapheresis is the removal and treatment of plasma from the circulation using a machine.  Plasmapheresis is the removal and treatment of plasma from the circulation.  The Rogosin Institute has extensive experience in treating blood outside the body, called extracorporeal therapy.  The procedure is generally well tolerated and usually takes approximately two to three hours. Since some patients, although uncommon, can have low blood pressure resulting in dizziness or fainting, the treatment is performed within the NewYork Presbyterian Hospital outpatient dialysis/apheresis unit on N-8.  

During the therapy, blood is removed from the body through a needle or catheter and processed in a machine called a cell separator.  The plasma is discarded and replaced most commonly with a protein solution called albumin before being returned to the patient through another needle or the same catheter.  The treatment usually needs to be performed several times to be effective.

Diseases that can be treated with plasmapheresis: 

• Hyperviscosity syndrome due to elevated blood proteins
• Guillain Barre syndrome
• Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
• Myasthenia gravis
• Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
• Goodpasture’s syndrome
• Cryoglobulinemia
• Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome

For more information about plasmapheresis or to schedule an appointment
Please have your physician contact:
Dr. Bruce Gordon:  212-746-1554.