Light activated anti-infective biomaterials for healthcare

Microbial adhesion to a medical device’s surface is the first step in the infection process and is crucial for the pathogenicity of device-associated infections. This research work investigated two common problems associated with medical device use and two alternative approaches that could be used to reduce microbial colonisation and prevent resistant microorganisms.<br><br>The first experimental chapter investigated if pathogens could be displaced during urinary catheterisation as a possible cause of catheter-associated urinary tract infections.

Intermittent catheters were inserted into an in vitro urethral model to assess whether pathogens located around the urethral meatus could be displaced up the urethral canal towards the bladder.<br><br>The second experimental chapter investigated the effect different types of catheter surfaces had on catheter insertion and withdrawal forces. During catheterisation, lubricity needs to be maintained at the catheter’s surface to prevent friction from occurring between the catheter’s surface and urethral mucosa.