[Significance of microbial colonisation in materials for orthopaedic technology. New insights].

A great problem in the treatment of diabetes are infections of diabetic feet. A likely reservoir of microorganisms are contaminated orthopaedic materials. Insoles from 70 patients were examined for potential microbial colonisation. Commonly employed materials were contaminated in vitro under standardised conditions using known microorganisms. After treating with an alcoholic skin disinfectant, the organisms were counted semiquantitatively. In addition to pathogens, the surfaces showed mainly microorganisms present in the normal skin flora. In all materials tested, disinfection reduced the number of organisms by 4-5 log orders. It could be shown that simple disinfection (wiping) reduces the microorganisms present on orthopaedic materials to an acceptable number. Further studies are needed to determine whether this also reduces the incidence of diabetic skin and soft tissue infection.