Erythrocytapheresis (red cell exchange).

Automated erythrocytapheresis (red cell exchange) was performed on two patients with sickle cell disease using the IBM 2997 Blood Cell Separator. Preoperative red cell exchange was performed on patient L.N. to prevent possible anterior ischemic syndrome during surgery. A red cell exchange procedure on patient A.Y. diminished her acute sickle crisis symptoms and resolved respiratory complications. For each patient, the instrument settings were varied in order to achieve the desired effect for the hematological needs of the individual patient.