The technology

SecurePort IV (Adhezion Biomedical) is a cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive intended for use in people having a percutaneous catheter inserted. Percutaneous catheters are associated with complications such as migration or dislodgement of the catheter, bleeding around the insertion site and infection. Specifically, SecurePort IV is a 2-octyl-cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive, and the company claims the device offers enhanced properties for patients and clinicians. SecurePort IV seals and secures the insertion site and uses a formulation to reduce catheter-related infections. The formulation has antimicrobial properties, which the company claims reduces the ability of bacteria to migrate into the bloodstream and tissues. Each applicator holds 0.15 ml of SecurePort IV and can distribute controlled amounts of product. After placement of a line, 1 to 2 drops of SecurePort IV are applied at the insertion site, underneath catheter hubs and over any sutures to increase dressing adherence and reduce the risk of infection. The adhesive remains active for up to 7 days which limits the need for regular dressing changes. SecurePort IV has been tested for compatibility with a wide range of catheters and can be used alone as a securement device or in addition to currently available devices.

Innovations

The key innovative feature of SecurePort IV is that it combines the benefits of multiple products to seal and secure catheter insertion sites and prevent microbial infection. The technology is formulated to cure flexibly and act like a second skin.

Current care pathway

In current practice, multiple products may be applied to avoid potential complications after inserting a percutaneous catheter. These include pressure dressings to prevent bleeding, antimicrobial dressings to prevent infection and securement devices to prevent catheter dislodgement and migration.

The following publications have been identified as relevant to this care pathway:

Population, setting and intended user

SecurePort IV would be used in primary and secondary care settings in place of current securement methods for percutaneous catheters. The company claims that it can be used in people of all ages including newborn babies under 28 days old.

SecurePort IV would be applied by an anaesthetist or nurse when inserting a catheter or changing the dressing after 7 days.

Costs

Technology costs

The cost of SecurePort IV is £5 per unit (excluding VAT). One unit would be used per patient catheter insertion.

Costs of standard care

The costs of standard care vary widely between healthcare settings, from £5 to £90, depending on the dwell time of the catheter and combination of products that are used to secure the catheter and prevent microbial infection.

Resource consequences

The device has been used in the UK since 2020, with more than 20 sites using SecurePort IV with catheters on a regular basis. There are no practical difficulties or changes in facilities that are anticipated if the technology is adopted.

The company states that minimal training is recommended to achieve maximum product effectiveness. Free of charge virtual training modules and videos for healthcare professionals are available on the manufacturer's website.