A new Spectra Optia Apheresis System has arrived at Queen’s Hospital, which will help us to expand our red cell exchange service for patients with sickle cell disease, an inherited condition which affects red blood cells.

Red cell exchanges are a form of treatment for sickle cell, where affected red blood cells are removed and replaced. Exchanges can reduce the necessity for top-up blood transfusions, manage pain, and lower the risk of patients experiencing a crisis.

Deo Boodoo, our lead nurse for haemoglobinopathy, said: “The new device is a great way for our dedicated Haematology team to deliver high quality, essential treatment to our patients.

“It will also help with the expansion of our red cell exchange service, including to children living with sickle cell, in due course.”

We were one of 22 trusts across the country to benefit from a new device, part of a £1.5m investment by NHS England to improve access to red cell exchange therapy.

Pictured above is patient receiving a red cell exchange.

Read more about some of our sickle cell patients.