title: Comparing the Effectiveness of Polymer Debriding Devices Using a Porcine Wound Biofilm Model.
abstract: Objective:Debridement to remove necrotic and/or infected tissue and promote active healing remains a cornerstone of contemporary chronic wound management. While there has been a recent shift toward less invasive polymer-based debriding devices, their efficacy requires rigorous evaluation.Approach:This study was designed to directly compare monofilament debriding devices to traditional gauze using a wounded porcine skin biofilm model with standardized application parameters. Biofilm removal was determined using a surface viability assay, bacterial counts, histological assessment, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).Results:Quantitative analysis revealed that monofilament debriding devices outperformed the standard gauze, resulting in up to 100-fold greater reduction in bacterial counts. Interestingly, histological and morphological analyses suggested that debridement not only removed bacteria, but also differentially disrupted the bacterially-derived extracellular polymeric substance. Finally, SEM of post-debridement monofilaments showed structural changes in attached bacteria, implying a negative impact on viability.Innovation:This is the first study to combine controlled and defined debridement application with a biologically relevantex vivobiofilm model to directly compare monofilament debriding devices.Conclusion:These data support the use of monofilament debriding devices for the removal of established wound biofilms and suggest variable efficacy towards biofilms composed of different species of bacteria.
authors.affiliation: Faculty of Life Sciences, The Healing Foundation Center, The University of Manchester , United Kingdom .
authors.forename: Holly N
authors.initials: HN
authors.lastname: Wilkinson
authors.affiliation: Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, Manchester Pharmacy School, The University of Manchester , United Kingdom .
authors.forename: Andrew J
authors.initials: AJ
authors.lastname: McBain
authors.affiliation: Crawford Healthcare Limited , Knutsford, United Kingdom .
authors.forename: Christian
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Stephenson
authors.affiliation: Faculty of Life Sciences, The Healing Foundation Center, The University of Manchester , United Kingdom .
authors.forename: Matthew J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Hardman
keywords: Pseudomonas aeruginosa; Staphylococcus aureus; debridement; wound biofilm