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Biofilm formation on tracheostomy tubes
William A Jarrett1, Julie Ribes, Jose M Manaligod
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, 200 Hawkins Dr., Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
Ear, Nose, & Throat Journal
|October 2, 2002
Summary
Bacterial biofilms form on tracheostomy tubes regardless of material. This study found no difference in biofilm formation susceptibility among polyvinyl chloride, silicone, stainless steel, and sterling silver tracheostomy tubes.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Biomaterials Science
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Biofilms are implicated in infections associated with medical devices like tracheostomy tubes.
- The role of material composition in biofilm formation on tracheostomy tubes remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate bacterial biofilm formation on different tracheostomy tube materials.
- To determine if material type influences biofilm development on tracheostomy tubes.
Main Methods:
- In vitro testing of four tracheostomy tube materials: polyvinyl chloride, silicone, stainless steel, and sterling silver.
- Scanning electron microscopy was used to visualize biofilm formation.
- Exposure to Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus epidermidis.
Main Results:
- Both Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus epidermidis formed biofilms on all tested tracheostomy tube materials.
- No significant difference in susceptibility to biofilm formation was observed among the four materials.
Conclusions:
- Tracheostomy tube material does not appear to influence the susceptibility to bacterial biofilm formation.
- Further research may be needed to explore other factors contributing to biofilm-related infections in tracheostomy patients.