Transfusions of red blood cells are the main treatment for people who have moderate or severe thalassemia's. This treatment gives you healthy red blood cells with normal hemoglobin.
During a blood transfusion, a needle is used to insert an intravenous (IV) line into one of your blood vessels. Through this line, you receive healthy blood. The procedure usually takes 3 to 5 hours.
Splenectomy has in the past played a major role in the treatment of thalassemia, but increased awareness of its adverse effects have significantly decreased its use. When the surgical procedure is necessary measures must be taken in order to protect the patient from the risk of infection and thrombosis.