Biofilm formation in total hip arthroplasty: prevention and treatment

Elena García-Gareta, Christopher Davidson, Alexandra Levin, Melanie J. Coathup, Gordon W. Blunn

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    Abstract

    Biomaterials science is a very active area of research, which has allowed the successful use of implants in the orthopaedic field for over a century. However, implant infection remains a clinical concern as it is associated with extensive patient morbidity and a high economic burden, which is predicted to increase due to an ageing population. Bacteria are able to adhere, colonise and develop into biofilms on the surface of biomaterials making associated infections physiologically different to other post-surgical infections. Unfortunately, biofilms exert increased protection from the host immune system and an increased resistance to antibiotic therapy in comparison to their planktonic counterparts. The aim of this review is to assess the current knowledge on treatments, pathogenesis and the prevention of infections associated with orthopaedic implants, with a focus on total hip arthroplasty.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)80244-80261
    Number of pages18
    JournalRSC Advances
    Volume6
    Issue number83
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 18 Aug 2016

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