Summary
A new low molecular weight heparinoid, Org 10172 was compared to heparin in a randomized
single blind cross-over study in 55 patients with end-stage renal failure undergoing
chronic intermittent haemodialysis. The heparinoid administered as a single pre-dialysis
i. v. injection of 34.4 anti-Xa units/kg body weight was compared to standard heparin
(loading dose 2,500 IU + continuous infusion of 1,800 IU/hr). Mean anti-Xa plasma
levels reached were 0.55 and 0.94 anti-Xa units/ml midway dialysis respectively. All
110 dialysis procedures were successfully performed without clotting or bleeding complications.
Analysis of the number of clotted hollow-fibres within the dialysers showed a slight
statistically calculated advantage in favour of heparin. Clinically no difference
was detected. In conclusion, the heparinoid seems to be a good alternative means of
anticoagulation in haemodialysis. As it is administered as a single i.v. pre-dialysis
injection it will simplify the dialysis procedure.
Keywords
Chronic intermittent haemodialysis - LMW heparinoid