ATTACHMENT OF STAPHYLOCOCCI TO VARIOUS SYNTHETIC POLYMERS.

Abstract

The attachment of bacteria to solid surfaces like biomaterials is an important phenomenon because of its possible role as the very first step in the development of an infection. Staphylococcus epidermidis are the most common organisms causing infections of indwelling artificial devices. The attachment of Staphylococcus epidermidis strains to various synthetic polymers is investigated. The influence of surface properties of pure polymers and of surface-modified polymers on the attachment behaviour is examined.