Prevention of catheter-related infections: the potential of a new nano-silver impregnated catheter

Contaminated or infected catheters are a major source of nosocomial infections responsible for >40% of all episodes of nosocomial sepsis in acute-care hospitals. Antibiotics as well as surface modifications with, for example, hydrogels proved to be of little value in preventing the contamination of indwelling catheters. The even distribution of 10(12-13) activated silver nanoparticles per gram in various polymers, e.g. polyurethane and silicone, results in an excellent antimicrobial activity against a broad spectrum of organisms in vitro. Substantial reduction of incrustation of these catheters was also observed. These preliminary experimental data warrant clinical studies. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. and the International Society of Chemotherapy. All rights reserved.