Soft Tissue Fillers and Biofilms: A Hazard to Watch For

Theme: Oculoplastic & reconstructive surgery
What: Oculoplastic & reconstructive surgery
Part of: Oculoplastics II: Cutting edge research in oculoplastics! / Oculoplastie II: Recherche de pointe en oculoplastie!
When: 5/31/2024, 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Where: Room | Salle 714 A

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the presentation and management of soft tissue filler infection because of biofilm formation in 4 patients.

Study Design: case series

Methods: Single center, retrospective review of 4 patients who developed infection within their soft tissue filler because of biofilm formation. Their presentation and management are described.  This retrospective chart review was performed in compliance with the Declaration of Helsinki.

Results: Injectable soft-tissue fillers for facial rejuvenation and reshaping have been increasing in popularity and the rise of biofilm-related complications associated with these fillers will concurrently increase. Although most accept their existence, the potential impact of biofilms on the medical field with respect to soft tissue fillers has yet to be fully appreciated. Biofilm infection is the leading cause of device-associated infection in a variety of medical devices and implants. Fillers should be considered medical devices as they are foreign materials inserted into the patient and thus it should be no surprise that they are also at risk of bacterial biofilm contamination and its subsequent consequences.

Conclusion: All soft tissue fillers are capable of supporting growth of bacterial biofilms. Patients may not display any problems for months or years following their soft tissue filler injection. The clinical presentation of biofilm infection within a soft tissue filler is not always straightforward and may not be recognized by the unsuspecting injector. Treatment can be difficult and may require prolonged antibiotics as well as dissolving the filler, or removing the filler if it is not dissolvable. Recommendations and tips are provided to help one recognize this problem.

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Presenter(s)

Presenting Author: David Jordan

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