deWhich blood wash is right for you?
HELP Apheresis vs Apheresis: Plasmapheresis is a proven method of blood washing that is used to cleanse the blood of harmful substances and specifically relieve the body. Apheresis can be a valuable treatment option, particularly for chronic illnesses, autoimmune diseases or lipid metabolism disorders. But which form of blood purification is right for you? HELP apheresis and classic apheresis (plasmapheresis) are two different procedures that filter different substances from the blood depending on the indication and objective.
This article gives you a comprehensive insight into both methods, their areas of application, differences and advantages, so that you can make an informed decision.
What is apheresis?
Apheresis is a modern method of blood washing in which the blood is purified outside the body and freed from harmful substances. The blood is removed, filtered and then returned to the body. Depending on the procedure, various harmful substances, including heavy metals, inflammatory markers, fats, autoantibodies or metabolic residues can be removed.
Classic plasmapheresis is a specific form of apheresis in which the plasma – the liquid component of the blood – is separated from cellular components and purified. This procedure is used for a variety of conditions, in particular autoimmune diseases, chronic inflammation, neurological diseases and long COVID. By removing pro-inflammatory substances, the immune system can be relieved and cell regeneration promoted.
What is HELP apheresis?
HELP apheresis(heparin-induced extracorporeal lipoprotein precipitation) is a highly specialized form of blood purification that focuses in particular on the removal of cholesterol, fats and coagulation substances. This method is primarily used for patients with severe lipometabolic disorders, arteriosclerosis or cardiovascular diseases.
In contrast to classic plasmapheresis, which can remove a wide range of substances from the blood, HELP apheresis focuses primarily on the targeted reduction of LDL cholesterol and fibrinogen. This can significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes, particularly in patients whose cholesterol levels cannot be sufficiently reduced by changing their diet or taking medication.
Comparison: HELP apheresis vs. classic apheresis
| Feature | HELP Apheresis | Classic apheresis (plasmapheresis) |
| Aim of blood washing | Removal of LDL cholesterol and coagulation factors | Removal of inflammatory markers, heavy metals, autoantibodies |
| Field of application | Metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases | Autoimmune diseases, long COVID, chronic inflammation |
| Filtered substances | LDL cholesterol, fibrinogen, lipoproteins | Inflammatory substances, pollutants, metabolic residues |
| Duration of the treatment | 1.5 to 2 hours | 1 to 2 hours |
| Frequency of use | Regular sessions for severe lipid disorders | Individually adapted depending on the indication |
Which blood wash is right for you?
The decision between HELP apheresis and classic plasmapheresis depends on your individual health needs.
Plasmapheresis on the other hand, is the better choice if you are looking for general relief for the immune system or suffer from autoimmune diseases, chronic inflammation or long COVID. Through the targeted removal of inflammatory and stressful substances, this procedure can promote cell regeneration and general well-being.
HELP Apheresis is particularly suitable if you suffer from high cholesterol levels, arteriosclerosis or other lipid metabolism disorders. This procedure helps to reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular disease and improve overall vascular health.
Individual consultation – your path to optimal therapy
Everyone has different health challenges and needs. It is therefore important to seek advice from experts in order to find the best possible form of therapy. Our specialists will analyze your individual situation and recommend the most suitable form of blood purification that is tailored to your specific health requirements.
Arrange a no-obligation consultation today and find out more about the modern possibilities of blood purification. Let our experts help you find the best treatment option for your health.
