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[Heparin lock--preventing clots but causing bleeding?]
Timo Kaakinen1, Jouko Laurila, Tero Ala-Kokko
1OYS, anestesia ja tehohoito.
Renal replacement therapies are often conducted by using a dialysis catheter. The catheter may easily become blocked, if no anticoagulant drug is placed into it. Heparin is the most common drug used for this purpose. Even a drug which has been correctly placed into the catheter may, however, end up into the circulation and cause bleeding problems to the patient. We describe a patient case of this type. Alternatives to heparin are available, the use of which is associated with a smaller risk of bleeding. Furthermore, they can also protect the patient from catheter infections.
Renal replacement therapies are often conducted by using a dialysis catheter. The catheter may easily become blocked, if no anticoagulant drug is placed into it. Heparin is the most common drug used for this purpose. Even a drug which has been correctly placed into the catheter may, however, end up into the circulation and cause bleeding problems to the patient. We describe a patient case of this type. Alternatives to heparin are available, the use of which is associated with a smaller risk of bleeding. Furthermore, they can also protect the patient from catheter infections.
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