Biofilms and long-term use of totally implantable central venous devices

The long-term use of totally implantable central venous catheters has led to new problems of infection. The formation of bacterial biofilms appears to be an important factor in the development of infection as well as occlusion of the devices. In each of 18 children the entire catheter system was examined prospectively after removal. A biofilm was seen on the inner surface of every catheter. In 10 cases bacteria could be cultured. The predominant species were coagulase-negative staphylococci.