Hyperthermia Prevents <i>In Vitro</i> and <i>In Vivo</i> Biofilm Formation on Endotracheal Tubes
Marta Palau, Estela Muñoz, Nieves Larrosa, Xavier Gomis, Ester Márquez‐Algaba, Óscar Len, Benito Almirante, Joan Gavaldà
Abstract
Biofilm-producing microorganisms are considered medically crucial since they cause 80% of the infections that occur in the human body. Medical devices such as endotracheal tubes (ETTs) can act as a reservoir for pathogens providing the surface to which microorganisms can adhere and cause biofilm-associated infections in critically ill patients. This biofilm has been related with the development of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), with an incidence of 8 to 28%, a mortality rate up to 17% and its associated high extra costs. Although some VAP-preventive measures have been reported, they have not demonstrated a significant reduction of VAP incidence. Therefore, we present a new nonantibiotic strategy based on hyperthermia application to prevent biofilm formation inside ETTs. This technology could reduce VAP incidence, intubation duration, hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) length stays, and mortality rates. Consequently, this could decrease the antibiotics administered and influence the impact of antibiotic resistance in the ICU.