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In vitro evaluation of the efficacy of a silver-coated catheter
M M Gabriel1, M S Mayo, L L May
1Biology Department, Georgia State University, Atlanta 30302-4010, USA.
Abstract:
Bacteria commonly associated with nosocomial urinary tract infections were examined in vitro for their relative adherence to latex, 100% silicone-, hydrogel-coated latex-, and hydrogel/silver-coated latex urinary catheters. Degrees of adherence within 2 h were determined with cells radiolabeled with leucine. Adherence was greatest and equivalent on silicone and latex catheters. Adherence of four strains of Escherichia coli to the hydrogel/silver-coated catheter was decreased by 50% to 99% in comparison with the other catheters. Repeat testing with strains of E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa with over 50 catheters demonstrated 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.