First Place: Sustained-Release Antibacterial Varnish-Coated Biopsy Needle for Reduction of Infection Rates Following Prostate Biopsy—In Vitro Model

Abstract Background and Purpose: During the past decade, the incidence of severe infections after transrectal ultrasonography-guided prostate biopsy has increased. Antibacterial sustained-release varnish has been shown to reduce bacterial infections. This varnish has yet to be tested in the field of urology. We undertook an in vitro study to assess the possibility of reducing infection rates after prostate biopsy by coating the needle with a novel sustained, yet rapid release chlorhexidine varnish (SRV-CHX) specifically modified for prostate biopsy. Materials and Methods: A model simulating the microbiologic environment of a prostate biopsy was developed. The model consisted of two layers of agar, of which the first represented the rectum and was preinfected with Escherichia coli. The second layer was sterile and represented tissue interposed between the rectum and prostate. SRV-CHX–coated biopsy needles were inserted 12 times through the two layers, into the third agar layer representing the prostate. In...