Biofilm Formation by Acinetobacter Baumannii on Medical Devices: Implications for Healthcare-Associated Infections

Acinetobacter baumannii has emerged as a significant nosocomial pathogen due to its remarkable ability to persist in hospital environments and form biofilms on medical devices. This study investigated biofilm formation by clinical isolates of A. baumannii on various medical devices and evaluated factors influencing biofilm development. Twenty-five A. baumannii isolates collected from device-associated infections were characterized for biofilm-forming capacity on endotracheal tubes, urinary catheters, central venous catheters, and cerebrospinal fluid shunts using crystal violet assays, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Results demonstrated that 84% of isolates formed robust biofilms, with significant variations observed between device materials. Polyurethane surfaces supported the strongest biofilm formation, while silver-impregnated devices showed reduced but still concerning biofilm development. Treatment of biofilms with conventional antibiotics showed limited efficacy, with minimum biofilm eradication concentrations up to 1000-fold higher than minimum inhibitory concentrations. These findings highlight the clinical significance of A. baumannii biofilms on medical devices and underscore the need for novel strategies to prevent biofilm formation in healthcare settings.