Reduction of catheter-related bloodstream infections in preterm infants by the use of catheters with the AgION antimicrobial system

Objective: The present study aims to assess if use of a silver zeolite-impregnated umbilical catheter (AgION technology) can decrease the occurrence of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSIs) in preterm infants. Study design: Infants with gestational age<30 weeks were randomized to receive an AgION impregnated or non-impregnated polyurethane umbilical venous catheter (UVC). The primary endpoint was the incidence of CRBSIs during the time the UVC was in place. Results: We studied 86 infants, 41 of whom received the AgION catheter and 45 the non-impregnated catheter. During umbilical venous catheterization 2% of infants in the AgION group developed CRBSI in comparison with 22% of infants in the control group (p = 0.005). AgION catheters were well tolerated and none of the patients showed signs attributable to silver toxicity. Conclusions: The AgION-impregnated UVCs were effective in decreasing the development of CRBSIs in preterm infants compared to non-impregnated polyurethane UVCs. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.