Hemoperfusion
About Hemoperfusion
What is hemoperfusion?
Hemoperfusion is a dialysis-like extracorporeal therapy that rapidly removes circulating toxins directly from the blood via adsorption — binding toxins to activated carbon inside the filter column, then returning purified blood to the patient.
How adsorption works
As blood passes through the activated carbon filter, toxin molecules adhere to the carbon surface. Unlike filtration (size-based) or dialysis (diffusion-based), adsorption captures a broad range of molecules — from small drugs to large protein-bound substances like NSAIDs.
Advantages vs. other therapies
- vs. Hemodialysis More effective for protein-bound drugs; no complex dialysis machine needed.
- vs. Plasma Exchange No donor plasma required; handles a broader range of molecular weights.
- vs. Activated Charcoal Works after absorption into bloodstream; uniform beads for safer blood contact.
Toxins Removed by by ToxiClear™
Drugs and Medications
- NSAIDs
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Meloxicam
- Naproxen
- Carprofen
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Phenobarbital
- Bromide
- Baclofen
- Fluoxetine
- Sertraline
- Methotrexate
- Vincristine
- 5-HTP
- Oclacitinib
Rodenticides
*Treat within hours
- Brodifacoum
- Difenacoum
- Warfarin
- Bromethalin
Fungal Toxins
*Treat within hours
- Amanitins
Mycotoxins
- Aflatoxins (B1)
- Ochratoxin A
- Fumonisins
- Botulism
Pesticides & Herbicides
- Carbamates
- Organophosphates
- Paraquat
Other
- Xylitol
- Naturally occurring toxins
When to Consider CytoClear™
CytoClear™ columns remove inflammatory cytokines from blood, providing therapeutic intervention for severe inflammatory conditions:
- Sepsis & SIRS: Systemic inflammatory response syndrome with evidence of infection or severe inflammation
- Cytokine Storm: Excessive immune response with elevated TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and other inflammatory mediators
- Multi-Organ Dysfunction: Progressive organ failure secondary to uncontrolled inflammation
- Removes: TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-23, VEGF
Top 5 Referral Tips
1. Gather as much information as possible
Toxin or drug name, estimated amount ingested, time since ingestion, and any treatments already initiated.
2. Contact ASPCA Poison Control
Call (888) 426-4435. They can advise whether referral is appropriate and direct you to the nearest hospital.*
3. Refer as quickly as possible
The window between ingestion, redistribution, and elimination is critical. Hemoperfusion works best before irreversible organ injury develops.
4. Avoid the jugular vein
Hemoperfusion requires jugular venous access. Avoid jugular catheter placement prior to referral.
When in doubt, refer
If candidacy is uncertain, contact CARE immediately.
*ASPCA Poison Control consultations are fee-based and require a formal consultation for case-specific guidance.
Contact CARE today to refer your patient.