[Infections due to foreign bodies: primary prevention].
METHODS
Subsequent to physico-chemical reactions, foreign bodies, for example catheters, can be colonized by Staphylococcus early at the time of insertion. Once the foreign body has been introduced, germs adhere to the proteins deposited on its surface by the host defense systems. A better understanding of the pathogenesis of these infections should help in developing new strategies for prophylaxis.


RESULTS
Aseptic insertion with careful skin cleansing, adapted material, and impregnation of the catheter are all essential factors. It would appear that antiseptics are more effective than antibiotics for impregnating catheters. Silver-impregnated venous catheters have given promising results; similar findings have been reported for urinary catheters.
In case of endocarditis, the best treatment is complete ablation of the material and antibiotic therapy. Relapse is inevitable if the material is not removed.
Pasdeloup
T
T
Service de Médecine interne CH de Saintes.
D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000382:microbiology; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004203:Disinfection; D004866:Equipment Contamination / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D016459:Prosthesis-Related Infections / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012307:Risk Factors; D013203:Staphylococcal Infections / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*