Peritonitis is the most serious complication of peritoneal dialysis. Staphylococcus aureus infections could lead to peritonitis and patients will have to revert from peritoneal dialysis treatments back to hemodialysis. This newly developed and patented patch has a controlled release silicone adhesive-based mupirocin (MP) for prophylactic effect and its antibacterial effectiveness has been analysed against S. aureaus. The patches were prepared by using different polymers, with and without silicone adhesive, dibutyl sebacate, and MP. They were characterised for mechanical properties, drug content, moisture content, water absorption capacity, and Fourier transform infrared spectrum.
Technology Features, Specifications and Advantages
This medicated patch includes a medication layer containing a medication within, and a backing film on one side of the medication layer. The patch also includes a skin adhesive layer beneath the medication layer; and a protective liner beneath the skin adhesive layer. The patch is placed on a catheter by applying pressure to the skin of a subject after insertion of the catheter, thereby holding the catheter and the medication diffusing into the skin in place and preventing infection at the medication site. This patch provides medication to prevent infection and holds the catheter in place at the exit site. Use of this patch will mean less frequency of dressing and surgical tape changes; less ointments used for dressing which usually leads to catheter damage and less frequent replacement of catheter. The patches are non-irritant to the skin, and histopathologic results have shown no toxic or damaging effects to the skin.
Current application of this medical surgical patch is targeted specifically for peritoneal dialysis patients, as there have been high mortality rates amongst these patients due to infections at their exit sites. However, this product can be expanded and customised to target specific conditions which have similar consequences as peritoneal dialysis.