Leading the way in sickle cell care

We provide in-center red blood cell exchange, also known as therapeutic erythrocytapheresis, and transfusion therapy. Erythrocytapheresis is a non-surgical therapy that removes and replaces a patient’s red blood cells. A patient’s blood is removed through a needle or catheter and circulated through a machine that separated red cells, white cells, platelets, and plasma. The red cells responsible for carrying oxygen to all parts of the body are discarded and replaced with donated red blood cells. The donor red blood cells circulate back to the patient with the other blood components (white cells, platelets, and plasma) through a return needle. Transfusion therapy involves regularly administering red blood cells to patients.

Hydroxyurea is a medicine that is used to reduce the frequency of pain and the need for blood transfusions in sickle cell patients. Hydroxyurea works by increasing the level of a special type of hemoglobin called hemoglobin F (HbF), which is more effective in binding and carrying oxygen around the body, reducing anemia symptoms.

In sickle cell disease, it increases fetal hemoglobin (HbF), which helps:

• Prevent red blood cells from becoming sickle-shaped.
• Reduce painful crises.
• Improve blood flow.
• Reduce complications associated with sickle cell disease.

Grady’s Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center provides specialized care for people with sickle cell disease while researching new treatments to improve their health and quality of life. Our doctors and research teams participate in clinical trials to find better ways to treat sickle cell disease and manage its symptoms.

Our research focuses on:

• New medications and treatments for sickle cell disease
• Better ways to manage and assess sickle cell pain
• Improving health outcomes and quality of life for people living with sickle cell disease

Interested in participating in a sickle cell clinical trial? Learn more about current research studies and opportunities to get involved at Grady.

Grady provides 24/7 emergency care for adults ages 18 and older with sickle cell disease. Our dedicated Sickle Cell Emergency Department and Acute Care Center, one of the first of its kind, provides prompt treatment for sickle cell pain crises and other complications.

Every patient receives a personalized care plan based on their needs, including specialized pain management to help relieve symptoms and prevent complications. Our team of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals works together to provide safe, compassionate care, manage pain, and help patients avoid unnecessary hospital stays.

Grady’s Sickle Cell Transition Program helps teens and young adults with sickle cell disease move from pediatric to adult care with confidence. Our team works with pediatric and adult sickle cell specialists, nurses, social workers, behavioral health providers, and community partners to make the transition easier.

We help young adults learn how to:

• manage their chronic disease
• navigate the adult healthcare system
• understand their treatment options
• maintain consistent engagement with specialty care

Grady’s Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center brings together specialists to treat sickle cell disease and its complications. Our team works with experts in blood transfusions, neurology, stroke prevention, and women’s health to provide coordinated care based on each patient’s needs.

• Blood Transfusions: Some people with sickle cell disease need regular blood transfusions to manage their condition and prevent complications. Grady provides specialized blood transfusion services, including red blood cell exchange, and care for patients with complex blood-matching needs or transfusion-related complications.
• Neurology and Stroke Prevention: Sickle cell disease can increase the risk of stroke and other problems affecting the brain and nervous system. Our specialists help identify risks, manage complications, and provide ongoing care to help prevent strokes.
• Women’s Health: Women with sickle cell disease may need extra care during pregnancy and at other stages of life. Our team provides reproductive health services, pregnancy planning, and coordinated care for high-risk pregnancies, including support during and after pregnancy.

Living with sickle cell disease isn’t always easy. You may have questions about your care, need help getting to appointments, or just want someone to talk to. At Grady, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

Our support care services team consists of our dedicated social worker, nurse navigator and behavioral health therapist who are specifically trained to support those living with sickle cell disease.

Our sickle cell support team is here to help you and your family manage everyday challenges, get the care you need, and feel your best.

Need help? Just ask. We’re here for you.

We use a multi-disciplinary approach to treat these slow-healing wounds.