3M Korea said Thursday it launched a new centralized catheter anchoring system that reduces the risk of bloodstream infection, called the “PICC/CVC securement device+CHG Dressing” package system.

The new all-in-one system includes the PICC/CVC fixation device, which can fasten a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC), and a central venous catheter (CVC) without tying the skin shut with stitches.

Kim Sang-dae, a senior researcher from 3M Korea, introduces the PICC/CVC securement device+CHG Dressing system at a product launching seminar in Seoul Wednesday.

Generally, securing a CVC requires a separate device that is sutured to the skin or fixated to the skin without sutures. In the case of skin suture, patients feel pain or discomfort since the catheter tube is fastened on to the skin through stitching. Risk of infection around the sutured area exists. Medical professionals also are at risk to stab injuries during the process.

A catheter fixation device that doesn’t require stitching poses less risk of infection but still has some amount of risk considering the fastening area is near where the catheter is inserted. Also, catheters need protection from the movement of all kinds, including repetitive or small movement as well as movement into the blood vessel. Most existing fixation devices stabilize small-scale, repetitive movements but are limited in preventing fallout from sudden, forceful impact.

3M’s “Tegaderm PICC/CVC Securement Device+CHG dressing” system attaches a fixation device away from the catheter insertion site. The Tegaderm CHG dressing, containing chlorhexidine, is also applied to the area of catheter insertion to prevent bloodstream infection, allowing for stable fixation without sutures.

The new system can withstand a weight of about 4 kg and has a securing strength 1.5 times higher than that of conventional sewing. It reduces the burden of increasing medical staffs’ labor that increases with frequent dressing change while also lowering the risk of infection. The antimicrobial effect of the Tegaderm CHG dressing lasts for up to seven days immediately after dressing, reducing the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infection, 3M said.

Preserving skin is also an essential factor in choosing a catheter securing device or the dressing. If the skin around the insertion site is damaged by dressing or attaching a securing mechanism, it may require reinserting the catheter. Relocating catheters translates into more work for the healthcare provider and is linked directly to an increased risk of infection.

The Tegaderm PICC / CVC securing device uses a silicone adhesive to reduce skin irritation and damage due to removal or reattachment. Physicians do not have to use a separate remover to take out the device. They also do not need to use a different product to reattach the device since it maintains initial adhesion even upon re-attachment.

3M also noted that application has become more comfortable since the securing device and the CHG dressing are enclosed and can be replaced in one swing at the required transfer period.

“Tegaderm PICC/CVC securing device is designed to provide patients with better treatment in a safer environment with its strong securing strength. It also reduces the risk of various infections caused by catheter insertion," a 3M Korea official said. “3M will continue to provide innovative products for Zero-CLABSI, and we will make efforts to contribute to the improvement of domestic ICU treatment.”

yjc@docdocdoc.co.kr

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