Venesection

• Venesection, also known as therapeutic phlebotomy, is a medical procedure used to remove blood from the body to reduce iron levels or manage certain blood disorders.
• It is commonly recommended for patients with iron overload conditions such as haemochromatosis, or other disorders where reducing blood volume or iron stores is clinically indicated.
• At TopDoc, venesection is performed by trained clinical staff in a structured outpatient environment, with appropriate monitoring and safety protocols in place.

Venesection may be indicated for:

• Haemochromatosis (iron overload)
• Polycythaemia
• Porphyria cutanea tarda
• Secondary iron overload
• Other conditions requiring therapeutic phlebotomy

Your referring clinician will determine the appropriate frequency and treatment plan based on your pathology results.

Before undergoing venesection, you will need:

• A valid referral from your GP or specialist
• Recent pathology results (including ferritin and haemoglobin levels)
• Clinical assessment to confirm suitability

Our team will review your referral and blood results prior to booking to ensure the procedure is appropriate and safe.

• A clinician will confirm your medical history and recent blood results
• Blood pressure and observations will be checked
• A measured amount of blood will be removed
• You will be monitored during and after the procedure

The appointment typically takes 30–45 minutes, including observation time.

You may resume normal activities shortly after, unless otherwise advised.