Device-Related Infections and Bacterial Biofilms

Dear Colleagues,

Device-related infections (DRIs) are a significant healthcare problem that can occur when medical devices, such as catheters, implants, and prostheses, become colonized by bacteria. Bacterial biofilms are mostly responsible for the development of DRIs.

Biofilms are complex communities of microorganisms that adhere to surfaces, in addition to tissues, and form a protective extracellular matrix. They are particularly problematic in DRIs because they can resist antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents, as well as the immune system, causing chronic infections that require device removal, which becomes an important problem for patients and healthcare systems.

Several factors contribute to the formation of bacterial biofilms on medical devices, including the surface properties of the device material, host factors such as immune function and nutritional status, and microbial factors such as virulence and antibiotic resistance.

Preventing DRIs requires strategies that target both devices and patients. For example, using materials that resist bacterial adhesion or coating devices with antimicrobial agents can help prevent biofilm formation. Additionally, proper insertion techniques and the appropriate care as well as maintenance of devices can reduce the risk of infection.

The treatment of DRIs often involves removing the infected device; however, this approach may not always be feasible or effective in eradicating biofilms. Alternative treatments include administering local antibiotics directly into the affected area or using antimicrobial agents that can penetrate biofilms.

Research is ongoing to develop new strategies for preventing and treating DRIs caused by bacterial biofilms. These efforts aim to improve patient outcomes while reducing the healthcare costs associated with these infections. In this Topical Collection, we encourage researchers and clinicians to submit research articles, review articles, and short communications that address the various aspects of biofilm formation and persistence in association with DRIs.

Dr. María Guembe
Collection Editor

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