Analysis of heparinization methods during hemodialysis.

The ideal method of heparinization should achieve therapeutic concentrations (0.2-0.5 IU/mL) in the artificial kidney and the least possible amount of heparin in the patient. Total heparinization using a bolus dose (8400 IU) followed by continuous infusion of heparin (20 IU/min), initially showed 1.4-2.4 IU/mL in the artificial kidney and the patient, but unpredictable slopes. High-dose regional heparinization (120-144 IU/min) and neutralization showed sustained heparin concentrations (0.4-0.6 IU/mL) in the artificial kidney, and less than 0.2 IU/mL in the patient. Low-dose regional heparinization (25 IU/min) initially showed 0.25-0.45 IU/mL in the artificial kidney, but unpredictable slopes in the patient. Low-dose regional heparinization (25 IU/min) and neutralization showed sustained heparin concentrations (0.15-0.35 IU/mL) in the artificial kidney and less than 0.15 IU/mL in the patient.