Rabbit model of a biofilm-contaminated, percutaneous orthopaedic endoprosthesis.

Abstract

Preclinical models of osseointegrated orthopaedic implants tend to focus on implant stability, surface modifications to enhance integration with host tissue, and reduction in iatrogenic contamination through antibiotic-eluting/bacteria-resistant coatings. While these studies are imperative to early success in osseointegration, continued success of percutaneous devices throughout the lifespan of the patient is also critically important. A perpetual challenge to the implant is formation of bacterial biofilm on the abutment. Once adhered, biofilm-based bacteria are recalcitrant and readily contaminate the subcutaneous soft tissue of the stoma. To this end, the rabbit model reported herein replicates the clinical scenario of a patient with a biofilm-contaminated abutment. This model enables preclinical testing of advanced therapeutics beyond the traditional antibiotic-based approach, potentially increasing the longevity of the device.