7 7
F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 4 | O U T P AT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E
B
iofilm is comprised of microorganisms, particularly bacte-
ria and yeast that replicate in the presence of liquid. When
biofilm forms on instruments and in flexible endoscope
channels, a slimy layer helps protect the bacteria and
yeast, making it difficult to eradicate once it forms. The
problem is that scopes and instruments are becoming incredibly com-
plex, making removing biofilm an increasingly difficult task.
C E N T R A L S T E R I L E
Beware the
Biofilm
BRUSHING UP Diligent manual cleaning
is essential to prevent biofilm from forming.
The microscopic residue of surgery and exams
can cause big-time problems.
Michelle J. Alfa, PhD, FCCM | Winnipeg, Canada
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