Phlebotomy for polycythemia is a type of blood vessel retraction surgery that can correct problems associated with abnormally shaped blood vessels. The most common type of phlebotomy for this condition involves using a needle to remove a blood vessel in an area of the patient’s body. Some phlebotomists also may use specialized equipment called a cannula to take out a blood vessel from another area. In this way, the bleeding will be reduced.
There are some conditions where phlebotomy can be indicated. One of these is polycystic kidney disease, where cysts form in the kidney or other organs. High blood count (HTC) and low platelet levels indicate that the patient has polycystic kidney disease. A phlebotomist can quickly assist in taking out a blood specimen so that testing can be done to confirm the diagnosis.
Needle phlebotomy can also be indicated for patients who are suffering from severe heart failure. Removal of a large number of blood vessels in the heart can help decrease morbidity and mortality rates. Phlebotomists also can be used to evaluate patients’ blood thinning or clotting. This is especially important in patients with conditions such as sickle cell anemia, where the effects of removing too much iron can cause bleeding and anemia. Many doctors recommend needle phlebotomy for patients with this condition because the effects of a sickle cell concentrate to the detriment of the circulatory system.
Other conditions that can be treated by therapeutic phlebotomy include elevated red blood cell volume, hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), and diabetes. High blood pressure levels can also benefit from phlebotomy, particularly for patients who have not responded well to conventional treatments. Many doctors use phlebotomy to treat patients with hypertension because it is a simple and non-invasive procedure. Patients can often return to work the day after therapy while returning to normal activities in a few weeks.
A phlebotomist known as a venipuncture technician should be a registered phlebotomist and receive additional training after becoming certified. In order to be qualified to take a phlebotomy exam, a person needs to have had at least one year of experience. The phlebotomist also needs to meet other medical requirements.
Phlebotomy for polycythemia is an integral part of vein care. It allows doctors to diagnose and treat certain blood disorders and improve circulation. Phlebotomy technicians play a vital role in the treatment of varicose veins, spider veins, and varicose vein symptoms in patients who are suffering from any of these conditions. If you’re interested in learning more about phlebotomy techniques, schedule a consultation with your local physician. You may be referred to an experienced phlebotomist who can offer additional information about this branch of medicine.
