Investigating bacterial biofilms in breast implant complications

Molecular Mechanisms Associated With Breast Implant Complications

Observational Indiana University · NCT05736354

This study is trying to see if bacteria that form biofilms are linked to problems some people have with breast implants, especially those experiencing Breast Implant Illness.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment1000 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorIndiana University Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Carmel, Indiana and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05736354 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study examines the role of bacterial biofilms in breast implant complications, particularly focusing on Breast Implant Illness (BII). It involves three patient cohorts: those with breast implants and BII symptoms, those with breast implants without symptoms, and individuals who have undergone breast surgery without implants. The study will collect blood, tissue samples, and implant materials to analyze the presence of oxylipins and immune cell responses related to biofilm infections. The goal is to better understand the etiology of complications associated with breast implants.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults over 18 who are undergoing breast implant removal or other breast surgeries.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, immunocompromised, or unable to provide informed consent may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of complications related to breast implants, potentially enhancing patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research on this specific approach, the investigation of bacterial biofilms in medical devices is a growing area of interest, suggesting potential for meaningful insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria for breast implant subjects:

* Age greater than or equal to 18 years
* Undergoing removal of breast implant
* Willing and able to comply with protocol instructions

Inclusion Criteria for subjects undergoing breast surgeries (other than implant removal)

* Age greater than or equal to 18 years
* Undergoing breast surgery
* Willing and able to comply with protocol instructions

Exclusion Criteria:

* Individuals who are deemed unable to understand the procedures, risks, and benefits of the study, (i.e., unable to provide informed consent)
* Pregnant females
* Immunodeficiency (HIV/AIDS, SCID)
* Currently on immunosuppressive medications
* Prisoners

Where this trial is running

Carmel, Indiana and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Breast ImplantComplicationsInfection or Inflammation
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.