Use of chlorhexidine-releasing nylon fibres to reduce device-related uterine infections

Implantation of intrauterine devices (IUDs) is associated with an increased incidence of uterine infection, probably as a result of vaginal bacteria e ntering the uterus at the time of insertion. To reduce the incidence of IUD -related infections, the incorporation of antimicrobial agents into the tai l of the device was studied. Chlorhexidine was shown to be released from wi thin nylon hollow fibres at a rate of approximately 114 mu g . day(-1) for 10 days. This rate of release was sufficient to exhibit a biocidal effect o n bacteria embedded within a mucus gel in vitro. When these devices were im planted transcervically into the guinea-pig uterus they significantly reduc ed the extent of uterine bacterial contamination within 24 h. These finding s indicate that chlorhexidine-releasing devices are potentially useful in t he reduction of device-related infections. Copyright (C) 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel.