Changes of hemorheological and biochemical parameters after plasma perfusion using a tryptophan-polyvinyl alcohol adsorber leading to clinical improvement in patients suffering from maculopathy

Background: Selective adsorption is an extracorporeal treatment able to reduce high-molecular-weight proteins and lipids. We evaluated its efficacy in lowering hemorheological parameters to achieve a better microcirculation of the retina. Patients and Methods: Ten patients suffering from maculopathies of various origin underwent a selective plasma adsorption procedure using the TR-350. Plasma and whole blood viscosity, erythrocyte aggregation and proteins and lipids were determined before and 24 h after therapy. Results: Selective adsorption therapy reduced the high-molecular-weight proteins and lipids. Plasma viscosity, standardized whole blood viscosity and erythrocyte aggregation were significantly lowered to 87, 88 and 65%, respectively, of their values prior to treatment. An improvement of visual acuity was achieved in 6/10 patients. Minor side effects were noted in 2/10 patients. Conclusions: Selective adsorption using the TR-350 adsorber is a safe technique, showing a high impact on blood theology. The changes of hemorheological parameters led to clinical improvement in 6/10 patients suffering from retinal disorders.