SecurAcath for securing cerebrospinal fluid catheters

The technology and indication described in this briefing is SecurAcath for securing cerebrospinal fluid drainage catheters. The device uses a small metal 'anchor' that sits below the skin and holds the catheter in place.

The innovative aspect is that this is the only securement device available for cerebrospinal fluid catheters that aims to reduce the risk of accidental dislocation or removal of the catheter.

The intended place in therapy would be as an alternative to current methods of securing cerebrospinal fluid catheters.

The main points from the evidence summarised in this briefing are from 1 prospective observational study including a total of 29 children in secondary care. No complications relating to SecurAcath were reported.

Key uncertainties are that the evidence is limited to 1 non-comparative study, which only examined the use of SecurAcath in children.

The cost of SecurAcath is £200 for a box of 10 devices (excluding VAT), and the cost of standard care will vary depending on the alternative method of securement used. There is no published evidence on the resource consequences of adopting SecurAcath.

NICE has also produced medical technologies guidance on this device for a different indication, SecurAcath for securing percutaneous catheters.