Effects of prophylactic use of taurolidine-citrate lock on the number of catheter-related infections in children under 2 years of age undergoing surgery.

Central venous access poses a risk for the development of catheter-related infections (CRIs). The aim of this study was to evaluate prophylactic use of taurolidine-citrate (T-C) solution on the number of CRIs. Ninety-seven catheters, used in 86 children, were divided at random into two groups: Group T(-) (N=49) underwent standard aseptic procedures, and Group T(+) (N=48) received additional filling of the lines with T-C solution during intervals in cycles of parenteral nutrition or drug supply. Sixteen CRIs occurred in Group T(-) and one CRI occurred in Group T(+); this difference was significant (P<0.05). Use of T-C appears to be a safe and effective method for the prevention of CRIs.