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

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.