Trial of 70% Ethanol Versus Heparin to Reduce the Rate of Central Line Infections in Children With Short Bowel Syndrome

Trial of Ethanol Lock Therapy to Prevent Catheter Associated Blood Stream Infections

This study is designed to determine if the use of 70% ethanol lock solution in central lines decreases the rate of central line infections in children with short bowel syndrome. While ethanol locks have been used safely in children, there has been no published research to date that clearly shows it is of definite benefit in this group of patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age >3 months
• Intestinal failure patients
• Silicone catheter for the administration of parenteral nutrition

Exclusion Criteria:

• Age < 3 months
• Weight < 5 kg
• Documented allergy to ethanol
• Evidence of tunnel site infection
• Patients receiving continuous renal replacement therapy
• Concomitant use of metronidazole