# The role of heparin in preventing early thrombosis of arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis: An observational Study

## TL;DR

This study shows that using heparin during surgery can reduce early blood clots in arteriovenous fistulas used for dialysis.

## Contribution

The study demonstrates that intraoperative heparin reduces early thrombosis in arteriovenous fistulas.

## Key findings

- Heparin use was associated with 11% thrombosis vs. 25% without heparin (p = 0.01).
- Smaller vein diameter was an independent risk factor for thrombosis.
- Heparin improved maturation and short-term patency of arteriovenous fistulas.

## Abstract

Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is preferred for hemodialysis. However, early thrombosis often leads to failure. Hence, this observational
study of 200 patients compared AVF outcomes with and without intraoperative heparin use. Thrombosis within 30 days was significantly
lower in the heparin group (11% vs. 25%, p = 0.01). Smaller vein diameter was an independent risk factor, while heparin improved
maturation and short-term patency. Despite minor bleeding, heparin prophylaxis was safe and may reduce early AVF failure.