A randomized controlled evaluation of absorption of silver with the use of silver alginate (Algidex) patches in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants with central lines

作者：Khattak A Z^*; Ross R; Ngo T; Shoemaker C T

来源：Journal of Perinatology, 2010, 30(5): 337-342.

DOI：10.1038/jp.2009.169

• blood stream infections
• topical silver dressings
• silver toxicity

Objective: To measure systemic silver absorption when using silver-impregnated alginate central catheter dressings in very low birth weight (VLBW) neonates and to monitor blood stream infection.
Study Design: Fifty infants were enrolled in a prospective, randomized controlled trial lasting 28 days. Each patient was assigned to standard dressing or silver alginate (Algidex) group. Serum silver concentrations were obtained on day 1, 7, and 28.
Result: Significant differences in mean serum silver concentrations for the treatment versus standard dressing group were observed using student's t-test analysis. The silver alginate group had a 45.8% reduction in infection/1000 line days, although too few patients were enrolled to draw meaningful efficacy conclusions about prevention of blood stream infection.
Conclusion: Mean serum silver concentrations in the treatment group were significantly higher than controls although below levels anticipated to result in toxicity. A large study evaluating reduced blood stream infections in VLBW infants is warranted. Journal of Perinatology (2010) 30, 337-342; doi: 10.1038/jp.2009.169; published online 26 November 2009

• 出版日期2010-5