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

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.