[Comparison of polyurethane and polyethylene for central venous catheter in intensive care units]

Polyurethane (PU) and polyethylene (PE) central venous catheters were compared for their respective responsabilities in catheter related sepsis (CRS). From may 1988 to may 1989, 300 central venous catheters were inserted. Insertion sites were freely chosen by physicians. The polymer type was randomized. Catheters were removed after 10 days in place. Microbial loads were assessed on insertion sites, catheter hubs and tips, and blood drawn through the catheters lumen. One hundred eighty three catheters were available for complete evaluation (101 PE, 82 PE). Eleven were responsible for CRS, 4 were colonized (BB3 according to Brun-Buisson's classification), 19 were contaminated (BB2), and 149 were sterile (BB1). When comparing the "infected" group (CRS+BB3) and the "noninfected" (BB2 + BB1), no difference appeared between the tested polymers. CRS were significantly associated with insertion into the internal jugular vein. It seems useless to exclude from clinical practice any of the biomaterials tested.