IN-VITRO EVALUATION OF THE EFFICACY OF A SILVER-COATED CATHETER

Bacteria commonly associated with nosocomial urinary tract infections were examined in vitro for their relative adherence to latex, 100% sil icone-, hydrogel-coated latex-, and hydrogel/silver-coated latex urina ry catheters. Degrees of adherence within 2 h were determined with cel ls radiolabeled with leucine. Adherence was greatest and equivalent on silicone and latex catheters. Adherence of four strains of Escherichi a coli to the hydrogel/silver-coated catheter was decreased by 50% to 99% in comparison with the other catheters. Repeat testing with strain s of E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa with over 50 catheters demonst rated a consistency in the inhibition. The hydrophilic coating of the catheter appeared to be primary in the decreased adherence phenomenon followed by a secondary biocidal effect of the silver ion.