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Published on: July 13, 2019
Microbial contamination of haemodialysis catheter connections
1Klinikum Garmisch-Partenkirchen, II. Internal Clinic, Murnau, Germany.
Abstract:
Bacterial contamination and colonisation of the haemodialysis catheter is a reason for infection in dialysis patients. One reason for contamination may be frequent routine connections at the beginning, during and end of dialysis. Higher infection rates observed with double lumen catheters may be due to the absence of the sterile, disposable device that is fitted between the blood tubing and the catheter hubs with single lumen catheters. A sterile, disposable extension was implemented at the author's unit for use in dialysis with double lumen catheters. The proximal and distal ends of the extension were assessed for microbial contamination after standard dialysis. Results show microbial contamination in almost 30% of the samples retrieved from the extensions. Experiences in PD and the behaviour of skin bacteria on polymers, suggest that disposable extensions might have the potential to serve as a barrier or absorber for bacterial contamination.
Insights
Disposable extensions for haemodialysis catheters showed microbial contamination in nearly 30% of samples. Despite this, these sterile, disposable devices may still act as a barrier against bacterial contamination in dialysis patients.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Haemodialysis catheter contamination is a significant cause of infection in dialysis patients.
- Frequent catheter connections during dialysis increase the risk of bacterial contamination.
- Double lumen catheters may have higher infection rates due to the lack of sterile, disposable connectors present in single lumen catheters.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the microbial contamination of a sterile, disposable extension implemented for use with double lumen haemodialysis catheters.
- To assess the potential of these disposable extensions to act as a barrier against bacterial contamination.
Main Methods:
- A sterile, disposable extension was used during standard haemodialysis procedures with double lumen catheters.
- Microbial contamination was assessed by sampling the proximal and distal ends of the extension post-dialysis.
Main Results:
- Nearly 30% of samples retrieved from the disposable extensions showed microbial contamination.
- Despite contamination, the potential for these extensions to act as a barrier is suggested.
Conclusions:
- Disposable extensions, while showing some microbial contamination, may offer a protective barrier against bacterial contamination in haemodialysis.
- Further research into polymer interactions with skin bacteria could optimize the design and efficacy of these devices.
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