#5959 CONSIDERABLE HEPARIN SAVINGS DURING 48 WEEKS OF HEMODIALYSIS WITH CITRATE-BUFFERED DIALYSIS BATH

Abstract Background and Aims There are research data suggesting a citrate-buffered dialysis bath being superior to conventional acetate-buffered dialysis. Since Heparin may lead bleeding complications increased costs we focused on potential savings in cohort of 100 patients who systematically were examined 48 weeks comprising timeframe using bath. Method Stable (n = 100, 30 females, mean age 70.7 yrs.) treated by high flux switched from (3mmol/l acetate) (0.8 mmol/l citrate, 0.3 acetate; MTN, Neubrandenburg, Germany). After 4 run-in phase the new heparin-dosing was reduced. given as single shot prior start dialysis, dialysate flow set 500 mL/min constantly. Heparin-dosing time course assessed basis phase. Results Average treatment 256 minutes per session average blood at baseline 361 254 369 ml/min end follow-up. The observation period 5450 IU/session, which could be reduced 3909 IU/ (71% starting dose, p<0.01) after first month further decreased 3147 IU/session 24 (58% initial p<0.01). In next no reductions achieved (average dose 3115 IU/session). week before reduction observed 2.2% clotting episodes 1.6% 48, respectively. Conclusion Despite heparin 42% number did not increase during period. Our indicate that long-term with is feasible, irrespective considerably beneficial for patient but also interesting commercial view point. Further studies ongoing assess clinical effects like calcification, morbidity, mortality.