Wicked: Dealing with Infected Implants and How to Salvage Saturday, October 11 Sat, Oct 11 5:00-6:00 p.m. CDT

Infections following implant-based breast surgery remain a complex clinical challenge, often requiring timely intervention to preserve outcomes and minimize patient morbidity. This session will delve into the underlying pathophysiology of implant infections, including the critical role of bacterial colonization and biofilm formation. Faculty will discuss risk factors, prevention strategies, and best practices for early diagnosis using imaging, cultures, and clinical biomarkers. Emphasis will be placed on treatment protocols ranging from conservative antibiotic therapy to surgical interventions, as well as emerging biofilm-targeting approaches. Attendees will gain practical insights into infection mitigation and implant salvage, equipping them with strategies to navigate one of breast reconstruction's most formidable complications.

Upon completion of this learning activity, participants should be able to:

1. Understand the pathophysiology of implant infections, including the roles of bacterial colonization, biofilm formation, and host immune response.
2. Identify patient-related, procedural, and environmental risk factors that contribute to implant infection development.
3. Evaluate evidence-based strategies to prevent implant infections, including surgical technique, antibiotic prophylaxis, and perioperative protocols.
4. Discuss early detection and diagnostic approaches for implant infections, incorporating clinical evaluation, imaging, cultures, and biomarkers.
5. Analyze treatment protocols for managing implant infections, including pharmacologic and surgical strategies, and decision-making around implant salvage or removal.
6. Examine the impact of biofilm on infection persistence and treatment resistance, and explore emerging research aimed at overcoming biofilm-related challenges.