Hemoperfusion

Published with the inputs from Dr Jayameena P, Senior Consultant, Nephrology, Kidney Transplant, Baby Memorial Hospitals - Kozhikode

Hemoperfusion is a specialized blood purification technique used to remove harmful substances- such as toxins, drugs, metabolic waste, or inflammatory molecules -directly from the blood. During hemoperfusion, the patient’s blood passes through a cartridge containing adsorbent materials (such as activated charcoal or resins) that selectively bind and remove unwanted substances. It is commonly used in poisoning, sepsis, liver failure, autoimmune diseases, and severe inflammatory conditions, often alongside dialysis or other extracorporeal therapies.

What is hemoperfusion?

Hemoperfusion is a detoxification therapy where blood is circulated through an adsorbent cartridge that traps toxins or harmful molecules. Unlike dialysis, which removes small molecules through diffusion, hemoperfusion can eliminate larger, protein-bound toxins that are difficult to remove by conventional dialysis.

When is hemoperfusion recommended?

Your doctor may recommend hemoperfusion in the following situations:

• Acute poisoning or drug overdose (e.g., theophylline, barbiturates, pesticides)
• Severe sepsis or septic shock requires to removal of inflammatory cytokines
• Liver failure to reduce bilirubin and ammonia levels
• Autoimmune diseases to control excessive inflammation
• Chronic kidney disease (in combination with hemodialysis) for toxin removal

It is also used as part of multi-organ support in critical care units.

How is hemoperfusion performed?

• The procedure is performed in an ICU or dialysis unit under close monitoring.
• Blood is drawn from the patient via a catheter and passed through a hemoperfusion cartridge connected to an extracorporeal circuit.
• The cartridge’s adsorbent material (activated charcoal or resin) binds toxins and removes them from the blood.
• Purified blood is returned to the patient’s circulation.
• The entire process typically lasts 4-6 hours may be extended to 18-24 hours depending on the indication.
• Hemoperfusion can be combined with hemodialysis or continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) for optimal toxin clearance.

Is hemoperfusion safe?

Yes. When performed by experienced specialists, hemoperfusion is safe and effective.

Possible side effects are minimal and may include:

• Mild drop in blood pressure during the procedure
• Temporary reduction in platelets or white blood cells
• Allergic reaction to the cartridge (rare)

These are carefully monitored and managed by trained nephrology and critical care teams at BMH.

Is hemoperfusion the same as dialysis?

No- while both are blood purification therapies, they work differently:

In critical situations, both therapies may be combined for maximum benefit.

What are the benefits of hemoperfusion?

• Rapid removal of toxins or inflammatory molecules
• Effective even when dialysis alone is insufficient
• Supports recovery in poisoning, sepsis, and organ failure
• Can improve hemodynamic stability in critical illness
• Minimally invasive, repeatable, and well-tolerated

Who performs hemoperfusion?

Hemoperfusion is performed by a specialized nephrology and critical care team  including nephrologists, intensivists, and trained dialysis nurses  under continuous monitoring of vital signs and blood parameters.

What is recovery like after hemoperfusion?

• Most patients experience improvement in symptoms within hours after the procedure.
• Recovery depends on the underlying condition being treated- for example, poisoning, infection, or organ dysfunction.
• Patients are usually monitored for 24 hours post-procedure to ensure stability and toxin clearance.

Connect with Our Experts Today

If you or a loved one is suffering from poisoning, severe infection, or toxin buildup, the Nephrology & Critical Care Team at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) offers advanced Hemoperfusion therapy — combining precision equipment, expert care, and 24x7 monitoring for safe and effective blood purification.

👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit BMH to consult our nephrology and critical care specialists.