Michael Jarrett
University of Colorado, USA
Title: Influence of Gelatin-Thrombin Matrix Tissue Sealant on Bacterial Colony Formation and Risk of Pelvic Infection
Biography
Biography: Michael Jarrett
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Gelatin-thrombin matrix tissue sealant (GTM) use was previously identified as an independent predictor of pelvic infection following hysterectomies. We aim to elucidate contributing factors by assessing influence of GTM on bacterial colony formation and characterizing bacteria present at the vaginal cuff. METHODS: Escherichia coli was incubated in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and pelvic washings with and without GTM to assess influence on colony formation. Pelvic washings of the vaginal cuff were collected from hysterectomies occurring June through October 2015. In vitro techniques, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays for 16S rRNA, and 16S amplicon sequencing were performed with washings to characterize bacteria at the vaginal cuff. RESULTS: Mean bacterial colony formation in PBS following 20 hours incubation was greater for E. coli with GTM versus without (1.48x107 CFU/ml vs. 9.95x105 CFU/ml, p = 0.001). Out of 61 pelvic washings samples, 3 were culture positive (≥5000 CFU/ml) with Enterococcus faecalis. CONCLUSION: In vitro experiments conclude GTM supports colony formation of E. coli in PBS. Analysis of pelvic washings revealed presence of E. faecalis, but results were inconclusive. Further studies are recommended