Cold Atmospheric Plasma Treatment and Surgical Site Infections

Based on an increasing understanding of the cellular and molecular effects, the clinical use of cold atmospheric plasma is constantly expanding. Surgical site infections (SSI), which are a considerable burden to both individual patients and public health system, thus appear to be a promising indication for this innovative technology. In particular, the field of antimicrobial efficacy can reference to in vivo and in vitro assured treatment success, opening up interdisciplinary approaches and potentials. While the typical causal pathogen spectrum depends on the type of surgery, several endogenous and exogenous risk factors have been identified. The chapter provides an overview of how cold atmospheric plasma could enhance existing anti-SSI prevention and therapy concepts. While there is still a need for further evidence-based research the interim evaluation demonstrates the comprehensive potential of cold atmospheric plasma in the fight against this type of healthcare-associated nosocomial infection including all medical and economic challenges.