Advanced Therapy for High Cardiovascular RisK
Lipid apheresis is a specialized, FDA-approved therapy designed to lower dangerously high levels of lipoprotein(a) and/or LDL cholesterol in individuals who remain at increased risk for heart disease despite optimal lifestyle and medication management. At Hawaii Heart Associates, we offer this cutting-edge treatment to help address inherited and treatment-resistant cholesterol disorders.
What is Lipoprotein(a)?
Lipoprotein(a) is a unique particle that significantly increases the risk of atherosclerotic heart disease, stroke, peripheral arterial disease, and calcific aortic valve stenosis. Lp(a) levels are largely determined by genetics and are difficult to lower through conventional therapies.
Who Should Consider LIPID Apheresis?
The indicating for use in performing low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) apheresis to acutely remove LDL-C from the plasma of the following high risk patient populations for whom diet has been ineffective and maximum drug therapy has been either ineffective or not tolerated:
Group A. Clinically diagnosed Familial Hypercholesterolemic Homozygotes with LDL-C > 500 mg/dL;
Group B. Clinically diagnosed Familial Hypercholesterolemic Heterozygotes with LDL-C ≥ 300 mg/dL;
Group C. Clinically diagnosed Familial Hypercholesterolemic Heterozygotes with LDL-C ≥ 70 mg/dL and either documented coronary artery disease or documented peripheral artery disease;
Group D. Clinically diagnosed Familial Hypercholesterolemic Heterozygotes with lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] ≥ 60 mg/dL or ≥ 130 nmol/L and either documented coronary artery disease or documented peripheral artery disease.
Lipid Apheresis Program
Lipid Apheresis Program
How Does LIPID Apheresis Work?
Lipid Apheresis selectively removes excess Lp(a), ApoB and LDL cholesterol from the blood through s selective plasma filtration process. Each treatment produces reductions of 65–85% in these harmful cholesterol particles. Treatments are typically performed every 1–2 weeks and are well tolerated by most patients.
Kaneka Apheresis Machine
Clinical BenefITS
Significantly lower Lp(a), ApoB and LDL cholesterol levels
Decrease inflammation and pro-thrombotic factors
Improve microvascular health and heart function
Reduce risk for heart attacks, strokes, and disease progression
Stabilize or regress arterial plaque in select patients.
Studies show reduction of cardiac events by 72%.
Insurance Coverage
Most commercial insurance and Medicare plans provide coverage for FDA-approved indications. Our administrative team will help facilitate preauthorization and answer questions about financial planning.
Scientific Journals
LipID Apheresis in Hawaii
Hawaii Heart Associates now offers the FIRST Lipid Apheresis Program in Hawaii, expanding access to cutting‑edge care for patients with complex cholesterol disorders and inherited elevations in lipoprotein(a). By combining this highly specialized treatment with expert cardiovascular prevention through the Alinea Program, our team delivers truly comprehensive, state‑of‑the‑art heart care for high‑risk patients across the islands
Apheresis treatments at Hawaii Heart Associates are performed by skilled nurses and nurse practitioners in a comfortable outpatient setting. Most patients report mild, temporary side effects such as fatigue. Our team ensures close monitoring and ongoing education throughout your therapy. Sessions last approximately 2-4 hours.
The program is lead by:
Ryan Smith, DO FACC, Lipidology and Cardiology and June Belvis, AGACNP-BC
If you or a loved one may benefit from Lipid apheresis, contact Hawaii Heart Associates for a personalized evaluation. Our experts will guide you through all steps—from initial assessment to therapy management—to help you achieve the best possible cardiovascular health