CUH sickle cell service is part of the non-malignant haematology service. It offers comprehensive and expert advice in the management of sickle cell disease
The team consists of consultant haematologists, haematology registrars, medical trainees, clinical nurse specialists, physiotherapists and a clinical psychologist. The service offers a full specialist service to patients including access to our onsite automated red cell exchange, phlebotomy, and the haematology day unit.
The aim of the service is to enable patients with sickle cell disease to live as normal a life as possible, by ensuring optimal treatment of their medical, physical and psychosocial needs.
- Emergency treatment of sickle cell crisis
- Individualised acute care management plans
- Regular assessments, reviews and screening
- Physiotherapy
- Monthly support group meetings
- Dedicated specialist adult nurses
- Genetic testing and counselling
- Psychological support and counselling
- Information and advice for health care professionals and carers
- Participation in clinical research
- Specialist haemostasis laboratory
- Facilitation of red cell exchanges (automated and manual) and red cell transfusions
- Facilitation of intravenous fluids
- Pain team
- Facilitation of sleep studies
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a rare blood disorder that can lead to serious acute and long term complications. This disease can have episodes of severe acute pain from blocked vessels with sickled cells which is also called vaso occlusive crises (VOC). The pain can be severe and last for several days or weeks. The pain may be described sharp, stabbing, intense, or throbbing. How severe it is and how long it lasts varies with different people and different crises.
Our SCD patients are offered individualised care plans to manage acute pain crisis which can be presented on admission to accident and emergency and is the key to prompt, correct management and reducing ED and hospitalisation episodes.
Clinical trials
We actively participate in clinical trials for patients. If you are eligible for a trial, we will contact you by letter or discuss it with you during your clinic visit and provide additional information.
Please do not hesitate to inquire about the trials currently available or inform us if you are interested in participating
Clinics
The consultant led clinic consultation and annual reviews operate every second and fourth Friday of the month.
The team is available Monday to Friday, 8:00 - 17:00 for specialist advice, genetic counselling, screening, support, education, health promotion and urgent review.
To change appointment
If you cannot attend your clinic appointment, please call us in advance on 01223 274652 so we can offer the appointment to another patient.
Wards
In cases where hospitalization is required due to a pain crisis, adult patients are typically admitted to Ward D9, U3, or C10, which are designated haematology wards.
The Haematology Day Unit is equipped to provide red blood cell transfusions and intravenous fluid administration.
The Apheresis Department offers specialized services for red cell exchanges.
Where to go in an emergency
In a sickle cell crisis, seek urgent medical help.
Call the Ring Team on 01223 217717 in working hours for advice.
For 24-hour support, ring the Acute Oncology Service helpline on 01223 274255.
If pain worsens, visit Accident & Emergency (A&E) immediately.
If symptoms become severe—such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or unconsciousness—call 999 for emergency assistance.
Stay hydrated and take prescribed pain relief while seeking help. Quick action is crucial to managing complications and receiving appropriate treatment.
Access to support services
In the hospital we do not have any access to social service help or help with benefits.
You should ask your local citizen’s advice centre for guidance.
If you are applying for a disability allowance, we are pleased to assist by completing the relevant sections regarding sickle cell disease (SCD) and its impact on your daily life.
We offer interpreters through our language line.
We also have chaplains in the hospital for spiritual support.
For any complaints, patients may contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS), located within the hospital near the main entrance. For positive feedback or suggestions, a comments box is available in the corridor; please note that this is managed by the hospital rather than Clinic 42.
Key staff for adult service
- Dr Martin Besser Lead Consultant Haematologist
- Dr Eliane Young Consultant Psychologist
- Vivian Garcia Lead Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Ruth Jolley Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Raeesa Autually Adult Specialist Support Nurse
- Anisa Vrapi Adult Specialist Support Nurse