Comparison of bacterial colonization rates of antiseptic impregnated and pure polymer central venous catheters in the critically ill

A study,vas performed on critically ill patients to evaluate the rate of colonization and catheter-related sepsis using antiseptic bonded (Arrowguard(TM) Arrow International) versus smooth pure polymer (Infectguard(TM) MedexMedical Ltd) central venous catheters, Two hundred and thirty-two catheters were inserted into 181 patients. Indications for removal included local or systemic infection, the catheter was no longer required and patient death. No statistical difference in colonization rate Was found between the two types of catheter. (C) 2002 The Hospital Infection Society.