Machine plasmapheresis

Types of machine plasmapheresis

Plasmapheresis machines are specialized medical devices used to conduct plasma exchange therapy. This therapy consists of removing a patient's blood plasma and replacing it with a substitute solution or donor plasma. The following table summarizes the types of plasma extraction devices.

• Our Apheresis Device: An apheresis device separates and collects specific blood components, such as plasma or platelets. Stand-alone devices are commonly used in specialized hospitals and blood centers.
• Our Centrifugation Device: Centrifugation devices use high-speed rotation to separate components based on weight. This method is frequently used to separate plasma from other blood components and is a prevalent technique applied in apheresis. These devices are frequently built into apheresis machines or blood processing systems.
• Our Membrane Filtration Device: Membrane filtration devices employ selective membranes to separate plasma from other blood components based on particle size and filtration pressure. While not as prevalent as centrifugation, membrane filtration devices provide alternative separation techniques for specific applications. These devices are typically integrated into complex blood processing systems alongside centrifugation and may be used in combination with apheresis technology.

Because of its high speed, safety, and efficiency, centrifugation has become the traditional separation technique for blood components in apheresis devices. Such devices are particularly prevalent and indispensable in platelet apheresis donation. Frequent huge donors of a single blood component can help improve patient outcomes. Moreover, the combination of centrifugation and membrane filtration separation technologies is ideal for creating specialized blood components. For example, double-separation apheresis devices can provide donors with both plasma and platelet concentrations. These mixtures can also be used therapeutically to treat patients with various diseases.

Apart from the devices mentioned above, there are also blood separation devices. Blood separation devices are generally used to separate various blood components, including red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. These include leukapheresis machines, which isolate and collect white blood cells, and erythrocytapheresis machines, which accomplish a similar task for red blood cells. Both work by centrifugation.

Specifications & Maintenance of a machine plasmapheresis

The following are key specifications of a plasma separator for the apheres machine along with their maintenance tips:

• Material

  The device's frame is typically made of lightweight plastic. A plastic material for the frame makes it lightweight and easy to move. It also makes it easy to disinfect and clean, reducing the infection risk. To disinfect the device, users should wash it with warm water and mild soap and then allow it to air-dry completely.

• Centrifuge speed

  The centrifuge rotates at a specific formula speed to separate the targeted components from the donor's blood. As per research studies, modern centrifuges rotate with speeds between 2,000 and 4,000 revolutions per minute (RPM) during blood separation. The speed may vary, depending on the type of centrifuge being used, the volume of blood being processed, and the specific protocol for the apheresis procedure. Users should regularly inspect and clean the centrifuge to avoid build-up residue or clogs. They should specifically check the centrifuge buckets and rotors for any signs of deposits or dirt. They should remove any residue with a non-abrasive cleaner before and after each use.

• Blood flow rate

  A plasma separator's blood flow rate refers to the amount of blood passing through the device per minute. The flow rate typically varies from 30 to 220 milliliters per minute during plasma collection. Once the blood passes through the separator, its components get extracted, and the rest get returned to the donor. Users should ensure the blood bag and tubing have no leaks to maintain the plasma separator device effectively. They should conduct regular functional testing to monitor the flow rate and ensure it is within the specified range. Users should also establish and follow a maintenance schedule to prevent any equipment failures that can hinder the blood flow rate.

• Weight

  A plasma separator device is generally lightweight, weighing between 1.5 to 3.0 kilograms. Such a weight range makes it easy to move and position it during complex medical procedures. To maintain the device properly, users should become familiar with the correct lifting techniques to avoid straining or hurting themselves during procedures that require moving and positioning the machine.

• Accuracy

  The accuracy of a plasma separator device defines its capacity to separate blood components precisely and its ability to return the correct proportion of blood components to the donor. Several factors affect the accuracy of the device, including calibration, centrifuge speed, and the ratio of anticoagulant to blood. Studies show that the precision of modern plasma separators is around 80-90% in separating blood components. Users should calibrate the device regularly to maintain its separation accuracy. They should also follow the manufacturer-recommended centrifuge speed to maintain the device's functional accuracy and ensure correct anticoagulant-to-blood ratios are used during the procedure.

• Functionality

  Users should develop a maintenance schedule and carry out routine inspections of the device to maintain its functionality. They should train the staff adequately on proper usage to prevent mistakes that can cause damage and hinder the device's functionality.

• Warranty

  The warranty for plasma separator machines vary depending on the manufacturer's specifications. The warranty may range from one to three years for equipment parts, excluding normal wear and tear. To maintain the device under the warranty coverage, the users should adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule. They should also promptly report any issues or failure to the manufacturer. More importantly, they should record all maintenance activities and ensure the device is always serviced by a certified professional.

Industry scenarios of the machine plasmapheresis

The presence of the machine plasmapheresis has improved how modern healthcare systems manage diverse illnesses. Its influence crosses various medical specialties.

In nephrology, the plasmapheresis separator machine aids in treating kidney diseases like Goodpasture syndrome and rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis, allowing for effective removal of circulating antibodies and autoimmune complexes. Neurology also benefits from the machine, which is used to treat neurological disorders such as Guillain-Barré syndrome, myasthenia gravis, and neurological manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus. In immunology, it helps manage patients with autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus and vasculitis. Rheumatology applies the device in cases of severe flare-ups or resistant disease forms. Hematology uses it for conditions like thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and hyperviscosity syndrome. Dermatology treats severe dermatological conditions like pemphigus vulgaris and autoimmune blistering disorders. Some patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) may need plasmapheresis sessions. Plasmapheresis machines are instrumental in hematology oncology, particularly in managing multiple myeloma and malignant hyperviscosity syndromes. Such conditions necessitate the immediate reduction of paraproteins and blood viscosity to prevent complication.

Moreover, the therapeutic apheresis machine plays a vital role in organ transplantation. It assists in desensitizing recipients who have high levels of donor-specific antibodies. By lowering the recipient's antibody levels, plasmapheresis facilitates successful transplantation and reduces the risk of acute rejection.

These are just a few examples of how the plasmapheresis machine is applied in different medical specialties. Its versatility and effectiveness in removing specific components from the plasma make it an invaluable tool for diagnosis, treatment, and organ transplantation across various fields of medicine.

Besides therapy, plasma separation is vital for producing blood products. Blood banks utilize plasma separation machines to separate components like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and cryoprecipitate. These products are essential for transfusions and offer targeted treatments for various conditions.

The increasing demand for plasma-based therapies and blood products highlights the significance of plasma separation machines in healthcare. They enable the efficient collection and extraction of valuable plasma components, contributing to the advancement of medical treatments and improving patient outcomes.

How to Choose Plasmapheresis Machines

While selecting a plasma extraction machine, buyers need to consider a few key factors to ensure that the product they choose is suitable for their requirements.

• Device Performance: The initial consideration should be the performance of the machine. Check its parameters such as volume, flow rate, processing time, component separation precision, etc. Buyers should make sure that the machine's performance aligns with their hospital's needs and plasma processing capacity.
• Functionality: The purpose of using a plasmapheresis machine is to extract plasma. However, the device may have other features and functions, such as the ability to collect other blood components, automatic prompting, error correction, and different treatment modes. Buyers should evaluate the machine's functions and choose a device with features that meet their specific requirements.
• Ease of Use: A complicated and difficult-to-use machine may lower a medical facility's operational efficiency and affect patient treatment. So, buyers should opt for a plasma extraction machine that is easy to use and operate. Machines with intuitive interfaces, systematic prompts, and user-friendly operating procedures can simplify the workflow for medical personnel.
• Safety and Dependability: The safety and reliability of the plasma extraction device is critical to both patients and medical facilities. Buyers should select machines that have passed strict evaluations and certifications, are produced according to quality control standards, and have reliable performance. In addition, buyers should opt for devices with comprehensive safety protection measures, such as protection against faults, alarms for abnormal conditions, etc., to prevent medical errors and ensure patient safety.
• Device Compatibility: It is crucial to choose a plasma extraction machine compatible with various blood collection kits and blood treatment equipment. A device with wide compatibility can provide more options for medical facilities and simplify the workflow of blood collection and processing.
• Cost-Effectiveness: This factor also plays a key role when selecting a plasma extraction machine for commercial use. Buyers should choose a machine that has a competitive price but offers excellent quality and performance. Buyers also have to consider the total operating costs of the device, including maintenance, consumables, and energy expenses.

Machine plasmapheresis FAQ

Q1: What is the mechanism of operation of the apheresis machine?

A1: Apheresis machines use a centrifugation method to separate plasma from other blood components. The blood is pumped into the apheresis device, where it is subjected to high rotational speeds in a centrifuge bowl. The different blood components are then separated based on their specific weights. The desired component, in this case, the plasma, is then extracted through a specialized outlet. Simultaneously, the other components of the blood are returned back into the donor or patient’s body.

Q2: How long does aplasmapheresis session last?

A2: Each session of plasmapheresis can take from one to three hours, depending on the specific type of apheresis being performed, the patient's condition, and the machine used for the procedure.

Q3: What are some recent advancements in apheresis technology?

A3: Recent advancements in apheresis technology include the development of more efficient separation devices, such as continuous-flow centrifuges and membrane filters, which improve product yields and reduce processing times. Automation of apheresis machines has also progressed, with computer-controlled systems that optimize processing parameters and ensure patient safety. Additionally, closed-system collection systems with sterile disposable bags minimize contamination risk and enhance biosafety.

Q4: What are the side effects of apheresis machines?

A4: Some side effects of the apheresis machine may include dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, and numbness or tingling in the fingers (known as 'hunting syndrome'). In rare cases, more serious side effects may happen, such as allergic reactions or blood clotting issues.