The Effect of Heparin On blood Components in Hemodialysis Patients in Dialysis Center in Tarhouna City, Libya

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of unfractionated heparin (UFH) administration during hemodialysis on hematological parameters in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). A total of 50 patients undergoing regular hemodialysis in Tarhouna City, Libya, were included and divided based on the dialysis machine used (Nipro vs. Fresenius). Blood samples were collected immediately before and after dialysis sessions to measure changes in complete blood count (CBC) values, specifically red blood cell (RBC) indices, white blood cells (WBC), and platelets (PLT). The results demonstrated statistically significant reductions in RBC count, hemoglobin (HGB), and hematocrit (HCT) levels after the dialysis session (p < 0.05), suggesting a potential contribution of heparin and mechanical factors to red cell loss. Conversely, no statistically significant changes were observed in WBC or PLT counts. Notably, bleeding complications were recorded exclusively in patients using the Fresenius machine (16% incidence) and were statistically linked to the use of high-flux filters (60High and 80High) (p=0.019). These findings underscore the importance of developing individualized heparin protocols and considering dialysis machine and filter characteristics to minimize hematological complications and enhance patient safety.