Examples of Medical biofilms, their causation, prevention and therapy

Characteristics of biofilm infections

• Symptoms

Biofilms on Indwelling Medical Devices

• Catheters
  • Urinary
  • Central venous
• Orthopedic devices
  • Hip replacements
• Other devices
  • Artificial heart valves
  • Pacemaker leads

Biofilms on Mucosal and other host surfaces

• Cystic fibrosis
• Oteomyelitis
• Contact lenses and other optical devices

Biofilms and Chronic Wounds (Existing unit completed. Currently Sections 1 through 6)

Biofilms on Hospital Equipment

• Hemodialysis machine waterlines
• Mechanical ventilators

Treating and Preventing Biofilm Infections

• Changes in surgical practices
• Changes in antibiotic therapy
• Antibicrobial devices
• Biofilm specific treatments
• Changes in nursing practice

Conclusions