The skin is home to trillions of bacteria, which are mostly harmless until introduced inside the body where they can cause infection. Scientists at Avery Dennison Medical have developed the BeneHold™ CHG antimicrobial adhesive to help with this problem. Chlorhexidine Gluconate (CHG) was chosen because it is a well-documented broad-spectrum antiseptic already widely used in many medical products to minimize microbial growth, including coated central venous catheters, skin antiseptics and IV site dressings.
BeneHold™ CHG adhesive technology by Avery Dennison Medical delivers the functionality of this antimicrobial agent in a thin acrylic adhesive layer that can be customized for various applications and performance requirements. We focus on adding antimicrobial properties to the primary skin contact layer; therefore eliminating the need for an additional component that holds and delivers the antimicrobial agent. In addition, BeneHold™ CHG adhesive technology when coupled with a transparent carrier film allows the contact layer to remain transparent and thin, making it easy to observe the site without disturbing it and offering added comfort. This novel adhesive technology is the subject of several granted patents globally and a number of pending applications.
Features and BenefitsBeneHold™ CHG adhesive technology is a unique proprietary acrylic-based adhesive with the following important properties:
- In vitro testing demonstrated that BeneHold™ CHG has an antimicrobial effect against a variety of gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria and yeast.1
- The absorptive properties of BeneHold™ CHG manage fluids such as blood, perspiration and other exudates providing a moist environment ideal for wound healing.
- When BeneHold™ CHG is applied to a breathable carrier, absorbed fluid is released through the film by vapor exchange for additional fluid handling capacity.
- The BeneHold™ CHG adhesive remains transparent throughout use and when coupled with a transparent carrier film it allows for continuous visual monitoring of site conditions.
- The CHG adhesive has been found to be non-cytotoxic and safe to use.
How does CHG work?CHG (Chlorhexidine Gluconate) is highly soluble; and in physiologic conditions it readily dissociates to release catonic chlorhexidine molecules into solution.
CHG molecules, that are positively charged, strongly bind to negatively charged bacterial cell walls. This damages the bacteria’s surface structure leading to an osmotic imbalance. The consequent precipitation of cytoplasm causes cell death.2
References:1. Data on file with Avery Dennison.
2. Denton, Graham. “Chlorhexidine.” In Block, S., editor. Disinfection, Sterilization and Preservation, 5th edition. Philadelphia: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, 2001, 321-336.