Background: To improve outcome in newborn infants by decreasing major complications as sepsis and thrombi, associated with iv fluid therapy and to save costs related to daily changing of iv lines, IV particle filters might play an important role. Subjects: 88 infants (76 preterm and 12 term) with central venous catheters(CVC), were allocated alternately to the study group(SG)(birthweight median 1360 gms, gestational age 30.7 wks) receiving iv fluid therapy with an ELD 96 filter or to the control group(CG)(BW 1420 gms, GA 30.6 wks) receiving iv fluid therapy without a filter from day 1 of life onwards. Interventions: In the SG all fluids and medications - except for lipids, blood and bloodproducts - were given through the filter. Each ELD 96 filter was used for a maximum of 4 days .Results: 65 CVC were inserted in SG(525 catheter days, mean 8.1) and 56 in CG(493 days, mean 8.8). Major complications i.e. thrombi or clinical sepsis/NEC (proven/unproven) occurred in 9 cases in SG and in 19 cases in CG(P< 0.05). Bacterial cultures of 125 filters were positive in 19 on the infusion site (mainly Staphylococcus epidermidis). Number of days admitted, on ventilation, and on Intensive Care were not statistically different between groups. Mean costs for disposables during 8 days were DFL 52.41(SG) vs. 68.64(CG)(P<0.05). Conclusion: Use of ELD 96 filters leads to significant decrease in major complications and significant cost savings.