Teleflex (NYSE: TFX) reports new findings from a study showing the efficacy of its Arrow chlorhexidine-impregnated central venous catheters (CVCs).
The prospective study cohort included more than 6,670 patients from 12 intensive care units (ICUs). It spanned eight hospitals across India, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Colombia, Egypt and Turkey.
Wayne, Pennsylvania-based Teleflex said the study evaluated the impact of chlorhexidine-impregnated CVCs on central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rates per 1,000 CL days. Investigators reported a 70.5% reduction in CLABSI incidence in patients with Arrowg+ard Blue and Arrowg+ard Blue Plus CVCs vs. plain (non-impregnated) catheters. That proved statistically significant.
Additionally, the study saw a lower incidence of infection-causing pathogens with the Arrow CVCs. That included gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria and fungi. Insertion training and the use of maximal barrier precautions proved similar across both groups. This eliminated technique variability as a confounding factor. Use of an unprotected CVC may be an independent risk factor for CLABSI when compared to patients with chlorhexidine-impregnated CVCs.
Teleflex said Arrow patients had a longer average length of ICU stay and device utilization ratios. Despite this, infection remained significantly lower.
Use of an unprotected CVC may be an independent risk factor for CLABSI when compared to patients with Chlorhexidine-impregnated CVCs.
Dr. Amy Bardin, VP of Clinical and Medical Affairs at Teleflex, said the new study suggests that even with proper training and adherence to best practices—including catheter insertion, care, and maximal barrier precautions—unprotected CVCs may be an independent risk factor for CLABSI compared to chlorhexidine-impregnated CVCs.
