Experience With Performing Rheocarna Therapy via the Single‐Needle Method for Treatment of Chronic Limb‐Threatening Ischemia

INTRODUCTION: This study investigated the safety and efficacy of single-needle Rheocarna therapy for chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) with wounds. METHODS: Six patients with CLTI involving ulcers unresponsive to revascularization underwent single-needle Rheocarna treatment. Changes in mean low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), fibrinogen, C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cell (WBC) count, platelet count, blood flow, and wound improvement were compared between treatment initiation and completion. RESULTS: The treatment never required discontinuation due to in-circuit coagulation or hypotension, and its safety was confirmed. After 10 treatment sessions, LDL-C and fibrinogen removal rates were 24.3% and 24.4%, respectively. Platelet, WBC, and CRP values did not change significantly over time. Blood flow increased during treatment and posttreatment. All patients experienced wound improvement and favorable clinical outcomes. CONCLUSION: Single-needle Rheocarna therapy is effective for wound healing in CLTI. If this method applies to nondialysis patients without arteriovenous fistulas, indications for Rheocarna therapy will likely expand.