Preventing Biofilm Formation and Development on Ear, Nose and Throat Medical Devices

Abstract

Otorhinolaryngology is a vast domain that requires the aid of many resources for optimal performance. The medical devices utilized in this branch share common problems, such as the formation of biofilms. These structured communities of microbes encased in a 3D matrix can develop antimicrobial resistance (AMR), thus making it a problem with challenging solutions. Therefore, it is of concern the introduction in the medical practice involving biomaterials for ear, nose and throat (ENT) devices, such as implants for the trachea (stents), ear (cochlear implants), and voice recovery (voice prosthetics). The surface of these materials must be biocompatible and limit the development of biofilm while still promoting regeneration. In this respect, several surface modification techniques and functionalization procedures can be utilized to facilitate the success of the implants and ensure a long time of use. On this note, this review provides information on the intricate underlying mechanisms of biofilm formation, the large specter of implants and prosthetics that are susceptible to microbial colonization and subsequently related infections. Specifically, the discussion is particularized on biofilm development on ENT devices, ways to reduce it, and recent approaches that have emerged in this field.

A Comprehensive Review on Biofilms in Otorhinolaryngology: Understanding the Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment Strategies

“…First, surface characteristics of ENT medical devices, including implants for the trachea, cochlear implants, and voice prosthetics, significantly influence biofilm development. Techniques such as surface modifications and functionalization are pivotal in mitigating biofilm formation while promoting tissue regeneration [ 11 ]. Microbial colonization represents another critical aspect of biofilm formation in the ENT region.…”

Biofilms on Voice Prosthesis – Challenges and Therapeutic Insights

“…Although antimicrobial peptides are a costly alternative that potentially lessen drug resistance, antibiotics can still be used in this situation. Lower doses of antibiotics can be used, which slows the development of antimicrobial resistance (30).…”

A high-throughput integrated biofilm-on-a-chip platform for the investigation of combinatory physicochemical responses to chemical and fluid shear stress

“…Biofilms can form and grow on both biotic and abiotic surfaces [5]. They cause infection, contamination, and corrosion [6] in various cases: as dental plaques [7], on medical implants [8], inside lung airways [4], on clinical equipment [9], inside the pipelines of the food, pharmaceutical [10,11], or water [12] industries. Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms for instance, are linked to chronic pulmonary infections due to their resistance to both antibiotic treatments and the immune system [13].…”