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Venesection is a procedure which involves removing a pint (half a litre) of blood from a vein in the arm. This is similar to the procedure used when donating blood.
When the number of red cells in the blood increases, the blood becomes thicker and more viscous, and the blood circulation in the body becomes sluggish. This can increase the risk of developing complications like blood clots (thrombosis). Removing the excess blood cells through venesection is the simplest and quickest way to reduce this risk.
Venesection is the recommended treatment for:
A blood disorder where the blood becomes thicker due to the excessive production of red blood cells. As a result, the blood cannot flow smoothly, especially through the smaller blood vessels. This increases the risk of blood clots, heart attacks and strokes.
A condition caused by excessive levels of iron in the body built up over many years. This can be primary hemochromatosis (which is genetic and inherited in nature), or could be secondary in nature (due to patients who have had many blood transfusions such as recovering post-transplant patients). The excess iron can result in:
A Venesection is a very safe and straightforward procedure, but some patients may experience side-effects including:
A tourniquet will be applied to your arm in the same way as when you have your blood taken. Next, a cannula will be inserted into one of the large veins in your arm. The cannula is connected to a collection bag via a tube to collect the blood. Once the desired amount of blood is withdrawn, some patients are given man infusion of fluid to replace the volume of blood given.
The cannula can then be removed and slight pressure will be applied to the insertion site for a few minutes. After that, a small dressing will be applied. You will be asked to rest for another 15-30 minutes, and your blood pressure will be monitored.
A tourniquet will be applied to your arm in the same way as when you have your blood taken. Next, a cannula will be inserted into one of the large veins in your arm. The cannula is connected to a collection bag via a tube to collect the blood. Once the desired amount of blood is withdrawn, some patients are given man infusion of fluid to replace the volume of blood given.
The cannula can then be removed and slight pressure will be applied to the insertion site for a few minutes. After that, a small dressing will be applied. You will be asked to rest for another 15-30 minutes, and your blood pressure will be monitored.
The venesection procedure should take less than an hour to complete. Most patients are able to carry on with their day’s activities immediately after the procedure. However, you are advised to avoid lifting heavy loads or performing strenuous activities for the next 24 hours.
The number of sessions and its frequency varies depending on your specific condition and your red blood counts.
Most patients start with one session every few weeks. Once the condition is under control, each session may only be required every 6 to 12 weeks.
The information on the Centre For Clinical Haematology website is intended for educational use. It should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified health professional.
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The CFCH team is committed to providing patient-centred care and comprehensive multidisciplinary support through every stage of your journey with us.
During your initial consultation, you'll meet our doctors who will listen to your concerns and begin your evaluation and recommend the necessary investigations required.
After diagnosis, we will plan your care, tailoring treatment options to your unique needs for the optimal outcome.
Throughout your treatment journey, we will provide a supportive environment to closely monitor your progress, ensuring your comfort and adjusting care as needed.
After treatment, we will continue to support you with a holistic approach to your recovery, to ensure that both your physical and mental wellbeing are looked after.
