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Updated: Jul 14, 2026
In vitro Biofilm Formation in an 8-well Chamber Slide
Published on: January 20, 2011
Bacterial biofilm adherence to middle-ear ventilation tubes: scanning electron micrograph images and literature
M Barakate1, E Beckenham, J Curotta
1University of Sydney, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Children's Hospital Westmead, New South Wales, Australia. barakate@gmail.com
Introduction:
The organisms that cause many device-related and other chronic infections actually grow in biofilms in or on these devices. We sought to examine the role of biofilm formation in chronic middle-ear ventilation tube infection.
Case Report:
Scanning electron micrograph images are presented which demonstrate biofilm on a middle-ear ventilation tube removed from a five-year-old child's chronically discharging ear. A review of the relevant international literature explores the role of biofilms in chronic infection and discusses potential intervention strategies.
Conclusion:
Biofilms may be responsible for chronic middle-ear ventilation tube infection that resists treatment with conventional antibiotics.
