A MULTIPURPOSE ANTI-MICROBIAL SILASTIC SHEATH SYSTEM FOR THE PREVENTION OF DEVICE-RELATED INFECTIONS

摘要

The present invention relates generally to indwelling medical devices. In particular, there is provided a device constructed from permeable or nonpermeable material having a pharmacologically active ingredient layer surrounding the device, and an outer sheath which is permeable to the pharmacologically active ingredient. This construction provides a device that allows the pharmacologically active ingredient located between the catheter tube and the outer sheath to slowly diffuse through the outer sheath and/or inner tube, thus inhibiting microbial infection on the outer surface and lumen of the catheter.