Impact of the contamination time by Escherichia coli on biofilm formation in surgical instruments

Abstract

Objectives: to evaluate the microbial load and adherence of Escherichia coli in different areas of the surgical instrument surface exposed to experimental contamination over time. Methods: experimental study in which fragments of crile forceps (serrated, rod and rack) were contaminated by immersion in Tryptic Soy Broth, containing 106 CFU/mL of E. coli, for 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 24 hours. Microbial load and bacterial adherence were evaluated using microbiological culture and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. Results: there was an increase in the microbial load on the surgical instrument, proportional to the contamination interval, ranging from 102 after 1 hour to 105 CFU/cm2 in 24 hours. The presence of exopolysaccharide was detected after two hours of contamination. Conclusions: microbial load and adhesion of E. coli increased over time, reaching 105 CFU/cm2 after 24 hours of contamination, starting biofilm formation after two hours.

Development of Medical Shark Skin Forceps: Improved Grasping Power and Easy Manipulation

“… 17 , 18 Furthermore, the sterilization and reuse of surgical instruments can lead to biofilm formation that is associated with device-related infection. 19 , 20 It has been reported that the structure of shark skin protects against external stimuli and reduces mechanical wear. 12 Furthermore, the structure of shark skin can prevent the attachment of bacteria and reduce biofilm formation.…”