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"We would like to present two patients in whom, 70% ethanol instillation was used to eradicate infection with these organisms as confirmed by repeat cultures post procedure" Visweswaran et al (2021).

CLABSI salvage with ethanol lock solution

Abstract:

Tunneled hemodialysis catheters are the lifeline to patients on maintenance hemodialysis with failed arteriovenous fistulas. However, thrombosis and infection are the main causes of reduced longevity of these accesses. According to IDSA guidelines, catheter-related infection with Pseudomonas and fungi are absolute indications for catheter removal. Considering the cost and difficulties in catheter replacement, for those in whom all accesses are exhausted, retaining the same catheter may be lifesaving. We would like to present two patients in whom, 70% ethanol instillation was used to eradicate infection with these organisms as confirmed by repeat cultures post procedure. Hemodialysis is being successfully continued through the same catheter.

Reference:

Visweswaran K, Ravi R, Daniel David J, Krishnaswamy S, Akhil R. Salvage of infected tunneled hemodialysis catheters using 70% ethanol lock solution: A brief report. Hemodial Int. 2021 Dec 14. doi: 10.1111/hdi.12991. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 34907637.