After bacteria colonize or adhere to an area, they secrete multiple substances including polysaccharides, proteins and extracellular DNA (eDNA) to create a scaffold or extracellular polymeric matrix (EPM). The EPM with the embedded bacteria create a complex community called biofilm. Bacteria within biofilm assume different roles and functions which are coordinated using cell-to-cell communication called quorum sensing.
Electron microscopy image of biofilm in an infected catheter
“Over 14 million biofilm infections occur each year and 350,000 patients lose their lives to biofilm disease each year.”
Wolcott, 2010
“[Globally in 2019]…biofilms have an economic significance in excess of $5000bn a year.”
Camara 2022
S. aureus biofilm grown in culture
Bacteria imbedded in biofilm have up to a 1000 times increased resistance to antibiotics. Mah 2012
Biofilm is found in over 90% of chronic wounds versus 6% of acute wounds. Attinger, 2021; Sharma, 2019
“Biofilms are ubiquitous in nearly all non-healing chronic wounds and the disparity in prevalence rates may be a reflection of study design and methodological limitations.” Malone, 2017
There is growing consensus that the persistent inflammation in chronic wounds is due to biofilm.
Biofilm must be eliminated for a chronic wound to heal.
Sonofii’s technology disrupts biofilm in soft tissue
exposing the previously protected bacteria to
high concentrations of antibiotic solution.
Over 90 patients have been treated with an over 80% resolution of infection.
Resolution of infection accelerates wound healing.