Effects of heparin on wound healing*1

Heparin, an anticoagulant that is widely used for cardiac patients, has been studied to determine its effects on wound healing. The role of heparin in wound healing has been demonstrated in both in vitro and in vivo studies. In cell culture studies, heparin and growth factors are associated with rapid and effective endothelial cell repair. In clinical studies, patients with burns and those with diabetic foot ulcers showed an increase in capillary circulation and decreased healing time. In contrast, heparin may not be beneficial in populations with ischemia, malnourishment, and vascular problems, although research in these populations is limited. Nevertheless, heparin continues to have therapeutic advantages for wound healing in carefully selected patients.