A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials: Effects of Heparin and Saline Flush on Maintaining Patency and/or Preventing Phlebitis

Abstract

Background : Two meta-analyses, combining the results of controlled and uncontrolled trials, evaluating the use of heparin versus saline flush for peripheral intermittent infusion devices concluded that heparin

flush had no benefit over normal saline flush. However, there are no systematic reviews in assessing the controlled trials to verify the evidence-based.

Objective : The objective of this study was to verify the effects of heparin versus saline flush on

maintaining patency and preventing phlebitis.

Design : Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Sampling : Purposive sampling of 14 published randomized controlled trials between 1970 and 2001.

Methods : The methods used were a demographic data form, a quality assessment form, and a

data analyses form.

Measurements : The data were analyzed by using STATA program using means and standard deviation to calculate patency and number of phlebitis.

Results : It was found that there were no significant difference in maintaining patency between

intravascular catheters flushed with 4,10, and 100 U/ml of heparin, and normal saline solution (SMD = 0, 95%CI = - 0.15 - 0.10, p = 0.662). There were no significant difference in preventing phlebitis between intravascular catheters flushed with 0.5, 1, 4,10, and 100 U/ml of heparin, and normal saline solution (RR = 1, 95%CI = 0.87 – 1.18, p = 0.87)

Conclusion : It can be concluded that saline flush is as effective as heparin in maintaining patency and  preventing phlebitis.

Key words : meta-analysis, heparin, normal saline, patency, phlebitis