Citrate Anticoagulation vs. Heparin-Coated Dialyzers

Hemodialysis causes contact activation of the coagulation pathway (1). For this reason, unfractionated or low molecular weight heparins are administered in daily practice to prevent thrombosis of the dialyzer and blood circuit, but the dose commonly used causes systemic anticoagulation. This can cause serious complications in patients with high risk of bleeding. Regional and low-dose heparinization, use of prostacycline, regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA), and high-flow-rate hemodialysis without anticoagulation have been shown to reduce bleeding complications. Each of these methods, however, is characterized by its own technical difficulties, limitations, or complications. The present study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of heparin-coated polyacrylonitrile membranes (AN69ST) and regional citrate anticoagulation in hemodialysis patients at risk of bleeding