Comparing the Effects of Three Heparinization Methods of Hemodialysis Set on the Amount of Clot Formation during Hemodialysis

Background: Nowadays, the most important aspect of hemodialysis is the technical method of anticoagulation of extracorporeal circuit. This quasi-experimental study was performed to compare three methods of heparinization in the extracorporeal circulation. Methods: Twenty-seven hemodialysis patients referring to Rafsanjan Hemodialysis Center with the weight range of 50-90 kg and normal Clotting Time and Partial Thromboplastine Time were selected and underwent three methods of anticoagulation rotatively. In the first method, only a single bolus injection of heparin (5000 IU) at the beginning of hemodialysis was applied. In the second method a primary bolus of heparin (2000 IU) followed by heparin infusion (1000 IU/hour) from the beginning of second hour to the end of third hour was used. In the third method, a single bolus injection at the beginning of hemodialysis and another injection (2500 IU) at the end of the second hour were applied. The amount of clot formation was evaluated at the end of the hemodialysis session by visual inspection. Results: The amount of clot formation in the first method (%92.6) was significantly more than those in the second and third methods (P<0.05). Conclusion: Although the first method is currently being used in some hemodialysis centers, it is not safe and accurate in comparison to the other two methods.