How to Get Rid of Biofilm

Advanced wound care is one of our specialties here at Medical Monks. Often, the aim of wound care practice is to apply modern technology to complications arising in chronic wounds. Biofilm, an almost invisible collection of bacteria and/or fungi that forms on the surface of the wound, is one of the most common complications practitioners see. 

As we’ve discussed, a patient with a chronic wound will often experience lengthy stagnation in the inflammatory stage of wound healing. Biofilm often contributes to this inability to move along in the process. Fortunately, medical tech has developed a variety of procedures and products to combat Biofilm, which we’ll learn about below.

What is Biofilm?

Biofilm is a collection of microorganisms, commonly bacteria and fungi, that are capable of growing on many different surfaces. It often takes the form of a slimy buildup whose purpose is to protect the colony from being reached by antibiotics so it can continue to thrive and proliferate. 

80% of chronic wounds contain biofilm, but it’s often invisible to the naked eye. That’s why, in an earlier era of medicine, its existence and effects were unknown to medical professionals.

Adverse Effects of Biofilm in Wound Healing

On a molecular level, it is still somewhat unclear how biofilm inhibits healing. However, the idea that it does inhibit healing is not debated.

When bacteria and/or fungi is present and unencumbered in a wound, it will tend to form a protective matrix of cells. This is the sticky film that surrounds the microorganisms and forms an invisible cloak that protects and hides biofilms from both the body’s immune system and antimicrobial therapies.

In simple terms, formation of biofilm is a self-perpetuating cycle. Certain conditions being present in the patient, such as diabetes or an impaired immune response, will make formation more likely. Once formation has occurred, it creates a situation where the body’s own immune-response is ineffective, even if it were at full strength.

Methods of Fighting Biofilm Development

The exact science around the formation of biofilm in wounds is still ambiguous, but it is known that it occurs in a series of rapid stages. During the very early stages the process is sometimes reversible with the use of common topical anti-infection remedies. 

Quickly, though, the biofilm will begin to develop its protective matrix and become much more difficult to treat. At this point, debridement is usually necessary. Sometimes, this is done as a mild surgery – physically cutting away the necrotic (dead) tissue with a scalpel or scissors. Because this method can be painful, surgical debridement tends to be a last resort. In most instances, biofilm can be dealt with using less invasive procedures. 

Mechanical Debridement

Mechanical debridement can be achieved by several means, including rubbing pads and irrigation. Anasept Antimicrobial Skin and Wound products are among the leading options on the market to help with mechanical debridement of biofilm.