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עמוד בית
Thu, 12.12.24

Original Articles

IMAJ | volume

Journal 7, July 2005
pages: 428-430

Biodynamics of Biofilm Formation on Nasogastric Tubes in Elderly Patients

    Summary

     Background: We previously reported on the high propensity of pathogenic oral flora in the oropharynx of nasogastric tube-fed patients, and subsequently showed biofilm formation on the NGTs[1] of these patients. There is a close relationship of biofilm and oropharyngeal colonization with pathogenic bacteria, aspiration pneumonia and antibiotic resistance.

    Objectives: To investigate the time relation between the insertion of a new NGT and formation of the biofilm.

    Methods: We examined sequential samples on NGTs that were forcibly pulled out by the patients themselves during any of the 7 days after insertion. Scanning electron micrography and confocal laser scanning microscopy were used for biofilm detection.

    Results: Biofilm was identified on 60% of the 35 samples of day 1 and on all the samples of the following days, by both microscopic methods.

    Conclusions: Biofilms form within a single day on most NGTs inserted for the feeding of elderly patients with dysphagia. Further research should be devoted to prevention of biofilm formation on NGTs.

     

    [1] NGT = nasogastric tube

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