Cook Med Releases Antibacterial Spectrum Turbo-Ject PICC Line

Cook Medical has released a new FDA approved venous catheter for pressure injection of CT contrast media. To prevent the occurrence of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs), the treatment of which is no longer Medicare reimbursed, the catheter is coated with Spectrum, a proprietary formulation comprising the antibiotics minocycline and rifampin.
From the press release:

With the Spectrum Turbo-Ject PICC, clinicians can choose from multiple catheter configurations that offer an industry-best range of flow rates in order to meet patient needs, including:

Maximum pressure limit settings of 325 psi

5 French single and double lumen with a maximum flow rate of 7 and 5 mL/second, respectively

4 French single lumen with a maximum flow rate of 4 mL/second

50 cm and 60 cm length available

Spectrum technology has been shown to establish zones of inhibition greater than 15 mm for up to 63 days against the leading cause of CRBSIs.
The combination of the antibiotics minocycline and rifampin that are impregnated within the material of the Cook Spectrum catheters work synergistically to provide broad-spectrum protection against gram positive, gram negative and fungal organisms in both short- and long-term use. Unlike most systemic antibiotics, this unique combination has the ability to penetrate the biofilm that forms on all indwelling catheters. Additionally, research has conclusively shown that use of these catheters does not promote the growth of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria in patients receiving Spectrum catheters. In fact, the use of Spectrum technology has demonstrated reduced antibiotic-resistant strains in on single-center study.
The Cook Spectrum Turbo-Ject PICC will be complimented by the PICC Procedural Tray, designed to efficiently supply the essential components for a clinician placing a PICC, whether bedside or in an interventional radiology lab. The tray provides the vital components for maximal sterile barrier precautions, a significant part of patient safety and infection control.

Press release: Cook Medical Launches Industry-First Pressure Injection Peripherally Inserted Catheter with Antibiotic Protection to Prevent Potentially Fatal Infections