Using UV light to prevent infections in patients with central catheters

Therapeutic UV Disinfection System to Prevent Catheter Related Bloodstream Infections (CRBSIs) in Patients with Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters (PICCs)

NIH-funded research Puracath Medical, INC. · NIH-10883567

This study is testing a new way to use UV light to clean the connectors on long-term catheters, which can help keep patients safe from infections while they receive treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPuracath Medical, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10883567 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a therapeutic system that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to disinfect needleless connectors on Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters (PICCs). The system aims to significantly reduce the presence of harmful microbes and biofilms that can lead to catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs). By achieving a 99.99% reduction in these pathogens, the study seeks to enhance patient safety and improve outcomes for those requiring long-term catheterization. The project includes preparing for clinical trials and ensuring the system is ready for commercial manufacturing.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters and are at risk for catheter-related bloodstream infections.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have central catheters or those who are not at risk for infections related to catheter use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could greatly reduce the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infections, leading to improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with UV disinfection methods in reducing infection rates, indicating a promising approach for this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Newark, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Catheter-related bloodstream infection
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.