Use of Catheter Lock Solutions to Prevent Catheter-Related Bacteremia

Catheter-related bacteremia is a frequent complication and an important source of morbidity and mortality in hemodialysis patients. A number of well-designed, controlled, prospective trials using antimicrobial catheter lock solutions to prevent catheter-related bacteremia have shown a significant decrease in infection and infection related mortality. Despite evidence of significant benefit, these locks are not routinely used in our country. This review describes the epidemic problem of catheter-related bacteremia and discusses current options for using catheter lock solutions in the hemodialysis population.