Not yet recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Biofilm-induced Antimicrobial Resistance RIsk ERadication in Critical Care Central Venous Catheters

This research is about understanding how germs called 'biofilms' form on central venous catheters, which are tubes put into large veins in critically ill patients. These infections are common and can be very serious, leading to longer hospital stays and sometimes even death. Biofilms make it hard for medicines and the body's own immune system to fight off these infections effectively. Currently, we don't know much about exactly how these biofilms grow and spread inside and outside the catheters. By studying samples from patients in intensive care, we hope to learn more about where and how these biofilms develop. This knowledge is crucial for developing better ways to prevent these infections and keep patients safer.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Sponsor

Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nīmes

Enrolment target

150

Start

01 Apr 2026

Estimated completion

01 Apr 2028

What is this study about?

When someone is very sick in the hospital's intensive care unit, doctors often need to put a special tube, called a central venous catheter, into a large vein. These tubes are essential for giving medicines, fluids, and taking blood samples. However, a common and serious problem can be infections around these catheters. These infections can make critically ill patients even sicker, leading to more complications, longer hospital stays, and sometimes even being life-threatening.

These infections often happen because tiny communities of germs, called 'biofilms,' form on the catheter. Think of a biofilm like a protective slime layer where germs can hide. This slime makes it really difficult for our powerful antibiotics and even our body's own defense system to reach and kill the germs. Because of this, it's very hard to treat these infections once they start. Currently, we don't have enough detailed information about exactly how these biofilms grow, what they're made of, and where they form (inside or outside the catheter) in real patients.

This study aims to fill that knowledge gap. By carefully examining catheters that have been removed from adult patients in intensive care units, we hope to understand the 'biofilm problem' much better. We will look at how much biofilm there is and exactly where it's located. The insights we gain from this research are vital. They will help doctors and researchers develop more effective strategies and treatments to prevent these serious infections in the future, ultimately improving safety and outcomes for patients in critical care.

Key takeaways

Study focuses on understanding germs on critical care catheters.
Aims to learn how 'biofilms' form and cause infections.
Involves adult patients in intensive care units.
Uses catheters already being removed, safe participation.
Goal is to improve future infection prevention for seriously ill patients.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adult patients who are currently in an intensive care unit (ICU), including general ICUs, post-surgery ICUs, or post-resuscitation ICUs. To be included, you must have a central venous catheter (like a regular central line, a dialysis catheter, or a PICC line) from which germs have grown in a lab test, indicating an infection or colonization.

Before you can participate, you or your legal representative will be given detailed information about the study both in writing and through a conversation. You must then freely agree to take part, or not oppose participation if you are unable to give consent yourself. There are no other specific reasons that would prevent someone from joining this study once these conditions are met.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Are you currently an adult patient in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU)?
Do you have a central venous catheter (like a central line or PICC) in place?
Has a lab test from your catheter shown that germs are present?
Are you able to understand and agree to participate, or would your family (legal representative) do so on your behalf?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, the main involvement will be allowing researchers to analyze your central venous catheter after it is removed as part of your routine medical care. There are no extra tests, medications, or appointments specifically for this study. The researchers will simply collect your catheter (which would have been discarded anyway) and study the germs and biofilms on it. There is no direct follow-up or additional burden on you once the catheter is removed. The total duration of your participation is essentially limited to the point your catheter is removed and collected by the research team.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study involves no additional medical procedures or changes to your treatment, as we will only be studying catheters that are already being removed. Therefore, there are no direct physical risks to you from taking part. The potential benefit is that the knowledge gained from studying these catheters will help doctors develop better ways to prevent and treat serious infections in critically ill patients in the future, benefiting many. You or your family always have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (2)

CH d'Alès
Verified postcode
Alès, France
CHU de Nîmes
Verified postcode
Nîmes, France

Common questions

What is a central venous catheter?

It's a special tube doctors put into a large vein, usually in your neck or chest, to give medicines, fluids, or take blood samples when you're very ill.

What is a 'biofilm'?

It's a sticky slime layer where germs can live and grow on surfaces like catheters, making them very hard to get rid of.

Will taking part change my treatment?

No, participating in this study will not change any of the medical care or treatments you receive.

Who can join this study?

Adult patients in intensive care units with a central venous catheter that has shown signs of carrying germs, and who agree to participate.

What will researchers do with my catheter?

After your catheter is removed as part of your standard care, researchers will examine it closely in the lab to learn about the germs and biofilms on it.

How to find out more

Nicolas Boulet

nicolas.boulet@chu-nimes.fr +334 66 68 33 31 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.