Anticoagulation by constant subcutaneous heparin infusion

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Vascular Medicine
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) requires effective anticoagulation.
• Current anticoagulation methods include intravenous and subcutaneous heparin.
• Continuous subcutaneous heparin infusion presents a potential alternative delivery method.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of achieving and regulating therapeutic anticoagulation using continuous subcutaneous heparin infusion.
• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of this method in patients with DVT.

Main Methods:

• A preliminary clinical trial involving five patients with confirmed DVT.
• Initial intravenous heparin bolus (5000 units).
• Continuous subcutaneous heparin infusion (15-25 units/kg/hour).

Main Results:

• Therapeutic anticoagulation levels were successfully achieved in all five patients.
• Regulation and maintenance of anticoagulation were comparable to intravenous therapy.
• No major complications were observed during the treatment period.

Conclusions:

• Continuous subcutaneous heparin infusion is a feasible and safe method for anticoagulation in DVT.
• This method may offer advantages over traditional intravenous or intermittent subcutaneous heparin.
• Further extensive clinical evaluation is recommended.