The battle against biofilms: understanding the impact on medical devices and patient health

Abstract

Biofilms represent integral communities of organisms commonly observed on biotic surfaces. Their occurrence on medical devices includes infection, inflammation, and device failure. Addressing infections associated with medical devices is challenging, marked by a notable recurrence rate. The primary challenge in the adhesion of microbes to medical device surfaces, transitioning into a biofilm state. This state presents distinctive characteristics, including unique growth rates, structural features, and increased resistance to antimicrobial drugs and host immune responses compared to their planktonic counterparts. Complications associated with biofilm-associated disorders often require invasive measures, which involve additional surgical interventions. Overcoming infections linked to biofilm-related complications becomes a formidable task due to their inherent resistance to conventional therapeutic approaches. Enhancing the efficacy of preventive and treatment strategies involves a multifaceted approach, integrating various modalities such as antimicrobial agents, physical disturbance techniques, and medical instruments such as catheters, prosthetic implants, and wound dressings. Vigilance in combating biofilms is essential to ensure patient safety and improve healthcare outcomes. Biofilm-related infections can range from complications to severe consequences, underscoring the urgency of the battle against biofilms in healthcare.