An improved technique for culture of catheter tips from open-heart surgery patients. Issue 2 (February 1982)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Freeman, R; Hjersing, N
• Is Part Of: Thorax. Volume 37:Issue 2(1982)
• Page Start: 145
• Page End: 146
• Publication Date: 1982-02
• Subjects: Chest -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Thorax; Chest -- Diseases; Periodicals; Periodicals; 617.54
• DOI: 10.1136/thx.37.2.145
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0040-6376

Abstract

Abstract : Bacteria were isolated from 19·6% of left atrial catheter tips from open-heart surgical patients when incubation of the culture was prolonged to eight days and the prophylactic antibiotic given to the patient (flucloxacillin) was specifically neutralised with beta-lactamase. This compares with the previous estimate of 9·9% when a standard culture method was employed. Additionally, diphtheroid organisms were recovered from left atrial catheter tips using this new technique.