Silver-Based Dressing for LVAD Infection
(LVAD-SilverD Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new silver-based dressing to determine its effectiveness in preventing infections in individuals with a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD), a heart pump. The goal is to assess whether this special dressing can lower infection rates and reduce skin irritation compared to standard dressings. Participants will use either the silver-based dressing (Silverlon) or the standard dressing, with evaluations on comfort and ease of use. Individuals who have recently received an LVAD and do not have a history of certain infections may be suitable for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study provides participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance post-surgical care for future LVAD patients.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this driveline management protocol is safe?
Studies have shown that silver-based dressings, such as Silverlon, are generally safe for use. Research indicates that silver does not harm healthy skin but instead helps reduce infections at sites where medical devices attach to the body. This is particularly beneficial for individuals using devices like the Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD), which aids the heart in pumping blood.
Specifically, using Silverlon significantly reduced infections at these connection points, lowering the risk of bacterial infections.
Overall, silver-based dressings are well-tolerated, with no major safety concerns reported in the studies. They could be a useful option for preventing infections in those who need them.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this silver-based dressing because it offers a unique antimicrobial barrier for LVAD infections. Unlike standard options that lack an antimicrobial layer, this dressing uses Silverlon, known for its ability to reduce bacterial growth. The inclusion of silver not only provides a strong barrier against infection but also aims to extend the time between dressing changes, potentially improving patient comfort and reducing the risk of infection. This innovative approach could significantly enhance the management of LVAD-related infections.
What evidence suggests that this driveline management protocol is effective for LVAD infection?
Research shows that silver-based dressings, such as Silverlon, effectively prevent infections, particularly in patients with Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs). In this trial, participants in the SilverD arm will use a Silverlon antimicrobial patch as part of their dressing regimen. Studies have found that Silverlon significantly reduces infections in the bloodstream and around LVAD wires. The silver in these dressings kills germs and keeps the area clean, lowering the risk of infection. In some cases, no infections occurred with silver-based dressings, compared to a 13% infection rate in those not using them. This evidence suggests that Silverlon is a strong option for reducing infection risk and skin problems in LVAD patients.13678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Liviu Klein, MD
Principal Investigator
University of California, San Francisco
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 who have had a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) implanted as either destination therapy or bridge to transplant at the Academic Medical Center within the specified dates. It's not for those with previous device infections or sternal wound infections.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants are randomly assigned to either the SilverD or ControlD arm, with driveline dressing changes and monitoring for infection rates.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, with continued assessment of driveline infection rates.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Silver-based dressing barrier
- Silverlon
Trial Overview
The study tests a new driveline dressing protocol using Silverlon, a silver-based barrier, aimed at reducing infection and skin issues in LVAD patients. This pilot RCT will evaluate infection rates, skin reactions, comfort, ease of use, adherence to the protocol and cost-effectiveness.
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Active Control
The SIlverD arm includes: 1. For standard dressing: a silverlon antimicrobial patch, CHG swabs for cleaning, an occlusive dressing with window, and driveline anchors. The driveline dressing change frequency will be weekly. 2. For sensitive skin dressing: a silverlon antimicrobial patch, Providone/iodine swabs for cleaning, an occlusive dressing with window, and sensitive driveline anchors. The driveline dressing change frequency will be weekly.
The ControlD arm includes: 1. For standard dressing: No antimicrobial barrier, CHG swabs for cleaning, an occlusive dressing with window, and driveline anchors. The driveline dressing change frequency will be every 96 hours. 2. For sensitive skin dressing: No antimicrobial barrier, Providone/iodine swabs for cleaning, an occlusive dressing with window, and driveline anchors. The driveline dressing change frequency will be every 96hr.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, San Francisco
Lead Sponsor
International Consortium of Circulatory Assist Clinicians
Collaborator
International Consortium of Circulatory Assist Clinicians
Collaborator
Citations
LVAD Driveline Infection Prevention
Several studies propose that use of silver-based dressing is beneficial in preventing DLI. Silverlon is a silver impregnated dressing which contains more than ...
A Weapon Against Driveline Infections in Lvad Patients
A treatment regime involving the use of Silverlon on drivelines has demonstrated significant reduction of driveline related bloodstream and pocket infections.
Clinical Studies | Silver Dressings | Silverlon Global
Multiple, peer-reviewed, published studies have shown the effect that Silverlon can have. Studies in a wide variety of Surgical, Wound and Burn Care ...
Silver-Based Dressing for LVAD Infection ...
This trial is testing a new bandage with a silver patch to prevent infections and skin problems. The silver helps kill germs, aiming to keep the area clean.
5.
bravidamedical.com
bravidamedical.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Silver-BasedDressingsForTheReductionOfSurgicalSiteInfection.pdfSilver-based dressings for the reduction of surgical site ...
There were no infections reported, compared to a 13% infection rate in 39 historical controls from the same institution treated identi- cally (except for the ...
Driveline exit-site care protocols in patients with left ventricular ...
Therefore, the use of a silver-based dressing only in the first 6 months after LVAD implantation may be (cost) effective in preventing driveline ...
Clinical Studies – Infection Prevention and Wound Care ...
Efficacy of Silver Plated Dressing Pad in Reducing Left Ventricular Assist Device Driveline Infections When Compared to Chlorhexidine Impregnated Disc. February ...
Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) Driveline Infection ...
A confidence interval of 95% was used. Results: A bi-weekly dressing change protocol using a pre-packaged kit, clear occlusive dressing, silver-impregnated ring ...
Unbiased Results
We believe in providing patients with all the options.
Your Data Stays Your Data
We only share your information with the clinical trials you're trying to access.
Verified Trials Only
All of our trials are run by licensed doctors, researchers, and healthcare companies.