Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE)

TPE is a medical procedure that removes and replaces the plasma in your blood. This treatment is used to remove harmful substances, such as antibodies or toxins, and is often prescribed for autoimmune diseases, blood disorders, and certain neurological conditions.

Plasma is the liquid portion of your blood, making up about 55% of its total volume. It is a pale yellow fluid that serves as a vital medium for carrying nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout your body.
Plasma is composed of:

• Water (about 92%): Keeps the blood fluid and helps dissolve and transport substances.
• Proteins (about 7%): Including Albumin, Globulins, Fibrinogen
• Other Components (about 1%): Includes electrolytes, glucose, hormones, gases, and waste products like carbon
  dioxide.

Albumin is a protein in your blood that helps maintain fluid balance and transports important substances.

During TPE, it may be used as a replacement fluid to restore balance and support your body's functions.

TPE has been incorporated into treatment plans for Neurological Conditions, inflammatory disorders, addiction, chronic viral infections, kidney problems, and more. It works by removing harmful proteins and other components from the body that, over time, can accumulate and exacerbate these conditions.

It may also address issues such as:

• Increased lipoprotein (a) and other lipid levels
• Chronic inflammation
• Genetic predisposition to neurodegenerative conditions
• Long Covid
• Brain fog

During TPE, your blood is drawn from your body through a needle. A machine separates the plasma (the liquid part of your blood) from the blood cells. The plasma is replaced with a substitute solution, such as albumin, and the rest of your blood is returned to your body.

A typical TPE session takes about 2 to 3 hours, though the exact time can vary based on factors like your body size, hydration level, and the ease of accessing your veins. Your nurse will ensure the process is as smooth and comfortable as possible.

• Help minimize inflammation to combat signs of aging
• Boost mental clarity, improve memory, and enhance cognitive function
• Promote heart health and improve circulation
• Assist in the removal of toxins and support the body's natural detoxification process
• Strengthen the immune system to stay well and reduce the frequency of illness
• Revitalize and restore overall health and wellness

The number of TPE treatments varies based on your health or what Dr. Muran suggests. For the initial round of treatment, patients may need from 1-6 sessions, with quarterly maintenance sessions recommended. Dr. Muran will recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Most patients experience little to no pain during the procedure. You may feel discomfort from the needle insertion or slight coldness from the replacement fluids. A nurse will monitor you closely to ensure comfort.

TPE is a well-established treatment with over 50 years of clinical use and an excellent safety profile, though, like any procedure, it carries potential side effects such as:

• Low blood pressure
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Risk of infection (if using a catheter)
• Allergic reactions to the replacement fluids

Your nurse will take precautions to minimize these risks.

How to Prepare for Your First TPE Treatment:

• Follow your doctor's instructions, including any dietary or medication adjustments.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
• Stay well-hydrated by drinking at least the daily recommended, 8-10 glasses, of water per day for 1-2 days before your treatment. Avoid alcohol the day before, as it can contribute to dehydration.

Yes, you are usually encouraged to eat a light meal and drink fluids before the procedure unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.

Avoid eating a really heavy, spicy, or fatty meal the night before your procedure. Immediately after the procedure, for up to two hours, avoid excessive use of your arms such as heavy lifting, exercises, etc. See response in the next question for post-procedure activities.

Yes, most patients can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure. However, if you feel fatigued, it's a good idea to rest for the remainder of the day. Refrain from gym or exercise activities for the remainder of the day.

Most patients feel well after TPE, but some may feel tired or experience mild side effects, such as nausea or chills. Rest and hydration are recommended post-treatment.

TPE is a well-established treatment with over 50 years of clinical use and an excellent safety profile, though, like any procedure.

Refer to question for risks and possible side effects

Yes, we allow this and have space and a chair for your family member or friend to sit with you during the procedure.

IVIG (Intravenous Immune Globulin) is a highly purified antibody therapy used to replenish healthy antibodies after Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE).

Since TPE removes both harmful antibodies, IVIG helps restore immune function by providing new, functional antibodies. This is particularly beneficial for autoimmune diseases, where the body attacks its own tissues, as IVIG helps modulate the immune response and reduce inflammation.

Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE) and Ozone Therapy are both blood-based treatments but serve different
purposes:

TPE removes and replaces plasma to eliminate harmful substances like autoantibodies, toxins, or abnormal
proteins, making it a standard treatment for autoimmune, neurological, and blood disorders.

Ozone Therapy involves mixing a small amount of a patient's blood with ozone (O3) and reinfusing it, aiming to enhance oxygen delivery, support immune function, and reduce inflammation.

Dr. Muran can help determine the best treatment for your specific needs.