Using heat to treat infections related to central line catheters
Adjuvant heat treatment for catheter salvage in central line associated bloodstream infection (HEATSAVE)
This study is looking at a new way to help people with central line infections by using gentle heat on catheters to break down the protective layers around bacteria, making antibiotics work better without having to take out the catheter, which is especially helpful for patients who need catheters for important treatments like hemodialysis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11077775 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treating central line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) by applying controlled heat to catheters. The goal is to soften and disperse biofilms that protect bacteria from antibiotics, allowing for more effective treatment without the need to remove the catheter. This method is particularly important for patients who rely on catheters for life-sustaining treatments like hemodialysis, where replacement poses significant risks. By enhancing the effectiveness of antibiotics and reducing biofilm biomass, this approach aims to improve patient outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with central line catheters who are at high risk for bloodstream infections, particularly those undergoing hemodialysis.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have central line catheters or those whose infections are not related to biofilm formation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatment options for patients with central line infections, reducing the need for catheter replacement.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using heat to disrupt biofilms and enhance antibiotic efficacy, suggesting that this approach could be a viable treatment strategy.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vanepps, J Scott — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Vanepps, J Scott
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.