[Clinical utility of an antimicrobial blocking solution in patients with an indwelling catheter]

Patients with indwelling catheters have a substantial long-term risk for catheter incrustation and blockage. Chronic bacteriuria is regarded as a risk factor for this complication. Until today, there are no effective prophylactic measures. We evaluated the effect of a triclosan-containing fluid for inflation of the catheter balloons (Farco-fill® Protect) on the extent of bacteriuria in a clinical setting.

In a prospective multicentre study, between 7 / 2009 and 3 / 2010, the effect of Farco-fill® Protect on urine culture was evaluated in 62 patients with indwelling catheters.

55 patients could be completely evaluated. With use of Farco-fill® Protect, urinary pH, and urine volume / 24 hours remained unchanged. The number of patients with > 10 (5) colony forming units / mL was reduced from 70.9 % to 45.5 %. In 34.5 % the extent of catheter incrustations could be reduced.

This study is the first to demonstrate a marked reduction of bacteriuria and catheter incrustations with the help of a triclosan-containing fluid in a clinical setting. Long-term studies are necessary to determine whether or not the afore-mentioned effect leads to less catheter occlusions.This finding would have positive medical as well as economic aspects.