heparinization
Pronunciation: hep-ah-rin-ih-ZA-shun
The process of administering heparin to achieve systemic anticoagulation before cardiopulmonary bypass.
Full Definition
Heparinization refers to the systematic administration of unfractionated heparin to achieve therapeutic anticoagulation prior to initiating cardiopulmonary bypass. The process involves calculating weight-based heparin doses (typically 300-400 units/kg), monitoring activated clotting time (ACT) to confirm adequate anticoagulation (target ACT >480 seconds), and administering additional heparin as needed. Proper heparinization is critical to prevent thrombotic complications during extracorporeal circulation. The term encompasses both the initial anticoagulation and maintenance of anticoagulant levels throughout the procedure.
Usage
Usage note: Use consistent spelling with 'z'; avoid British 's' variant in North American contexts.
In Context
- "Adequate heparinization was confirmed with an ACT of 520 seconds before bypass." — operative report
- "The patient required additional heparin to maintain proper heparinization." — perfusion record