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Venesection / Therapeutic Phlebotomy

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Venesection, also known as therapeutic phlebotomy or bloodletting, is a medical procedure where 1 pint or approximately 450ml of blood is removed from a person’s body. This is the same procedure used for blood donors.

There are different reasons why someone might need venesection, the main ones are conditions such as hemochromatosis (build-up of iron in blood), polycythaemia (high concentration of red cells in blood) or hormone therapies such as testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

To access private venesection procedures, you will need a recommendation or prescription letter from your doctor or consultant. This would ideally have your personal details, your doctor’s details, quantity of blood to withdraw and the reason why you are being recommended the treatment.

Before your appointment

 

You should inform the clinician if any of the following applies to you:

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  • Taking any blood-thinning medication

  • Taking any blood pressure medication

  • If you have previously fainted or become unwell after a blood test or venesection

  • If you are scared of needles

  • If you have a heart condition

  • If you are allergic to anything

 

It is advised to have something to eat prior to coming for your appointment and that you drink at least 1 litre of water. You can also bring a bottle of water to keep hydrated. It is recommended to avoid alcohol on the day of your appointment and the day before as it can increase risk of bruising or bleeding after venesection as well as leaving you dehydrated.

How venesection / therapeutic phlebotomy works

 

At your appointment, one of our experienced clinicians will explain the procedure to you and confirm you are happy to proceed. They will answer all of your questions before going ahead with the venesection. You will either sit or lie down and the clinician will insert a needle in a vein in your arm, connected to a bag or bottle to collect your blood.

The clinician will remain with you throughout the procedure.

The appointment lasts about 30-45 minutes.

It is important to know that although venesection is the same procedure as donating blood, Wellzone cannot use blood from venesection for this purpose and the blood must be disposed of.

Your body will replace the plasma within 48 hours and the red cells removed within 4-8 weeks.

Risks associated with venesection

 

Venesection is a generally safe procedure and serious side effects are unlikely. However, there are some risks associated with it, such as:

  • Dizziness and light-headedness during or after the procedure

  • Bruising on the site

Uncommon risks include:

  • Infection from bacteria carried into the blood stream by the needle

  • Nerve damage, which may cause temporary or permanent numbness, tingling, burning or pain

How many venesections will I need?

This depends on your condition, your blood count and your doctor’s recommendation. Some patients only require one venesection on a short-term basis while others will have frequent sessions over a longer period of time.