Improving the Hydrophobicity of Plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride for Use in an Endotracheal Tube

An endotracheal tube (ETT) is a greatly appreciated medical device at the global level with widespread application in the treatment of respiratory diseases, such as bronchitis and asthma, and in general anesthesia, to provide narcotic gases. Since an important quantitative request for cuffed ETTs was recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns about infection have risen. The plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC) material used to manufacture ETTs favors the attachment of microorganisms from the human biological environment and the migration of plasticizer from the polymer that feeds the microorganisms and promotes the growth of biofilms. This leads to developing infections, which means additional suffering, discomfort for patients, and increased hospital costs. In this work, we propose to modify the surfaces of some samples taken from commercial ETTs in order to develop their hydrophobic character using surface fluorination by a plasma treatment in SF6 discharge and magnetron sputtering physical evaporation from the PTFE target. Samples with surfaces thus modified were subsequently tested using XPS, ATR-FTIR, CA, SEM + EDAX, profilometry, density, Shore A hardness, TGA-DSC, and biological antimicrobial and biocompatibility properties. The obtained results demonstrate a successful increase in the hydrophobic character of the plasticized PVC samples and biocompatibility properties.

Antimicrobial Solutions for Endotracheal Tubes in Prevention of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia

Ventilator-associated pneumonia is one of the most frequently encountered hospital infections and is an essential issue in the healthcare field. It is usually linked to a high mortality rate and prolonged hospitalization time. There is a lack of treatment, so alternative solutions must be continuously sought. The endotracheal tube is an indwelling device that is a significant culprit for ventilator-associated pneumonia because its surface can be colonized by different types of pathogens, which generate a multispecies biofilm. In the paper, we discuss the definition of ventilator-associated pneumonia, the economic burdens, and its outcomes. Then, we present the latest technological solutions for endotracheal tube surfaces, such as active antimicrobial coatings, passive coatings, and combinatorial methods, with examples from the literature. We end our analysis by identifying the gaps existing in the present research and investigating future possibilities that can decrease ventilator-associated pneumonia cases and improve patient comfort during treatment.

Epidermoid Cyst of the Uterine Cervix, an Unusual Location: Literature Review and Case Report

Epidermoid cysts are most often benign cystic lesions, with uterine cervical localisation being very unusual. We present the case of a 52-year-old female patient diagnosed with an epidermoid cyst at the level of the uterine cervix. A bioptic and haemostatic uterine curettage was performed, followed by total hysterectomy with bilateral adnexectomy. The histopathologic analysis and immunohistochemical essay of the resection specimens confirmed the cervical epidermoid cyst. The presence of high-risk HPV (human papillomavirus) was only seen in the cervical mucosa. The exact etiopathogenesis is unknown, but postpartum cell implantation of reminiscent embryonic tissue can be involved in the development of these lesions.