The Role of SilverStream (Qurion) in Treating Multidrug-Resistant Post-Surgery SSI

Introduction

Post-surgery surgical site infections (SSI) associated with orthopedic implants are complex and challenging, particularly when caused by biofilm-forming, multidrug-resistant organisms such as Klebsiella pneumoniae. These infections are persistent, often unresponsive to conventional antibiotics, and can necessitate implant removal, leading to increased patient morbidity and healthcare costs. Novel strategies are essential to address these challenges effectively.

Case Report

A 40-year-old male presented with bilateral acetabular fractures and a left proximal humerus fracture following a fall due to seizures. Surgical repair was performed using a modified Stoppa’s approach with buttress plates. Post-surgery, the patient developed a surgical site infection (SSI) caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae and anaerobes, unresponsive to multiple rounds of wound washes and antibiotic therapy, including cefoperazone-sulbactam, chloramphenicol, and meropenem.

Faced with limited treatment options and the risk of implant removal, the team initiated therapy with SilverStream Solution (marketed as Qurion in some countries) and vacuum-assisted suction (QiVAS). Daily irrigation with SilverStream, combined with intermittent vacuum-assisted suction, resulted in a dry and infection-free surgical site within two days. The therapy continued for two weeks alongside meropenem, achieving complete infection resolution. At 6-month follow-up, the patient remained free of infection without implant removal.

Discussion

Post-surgery SSI caused by biofilm-forming organisms, particularly multidrug-resistant strains like Klebsiella pneumoniae, are notoriously difficult to treat. Biofilms protect bacteria from antibiotics and the immune system, necessitating innovative approaches.

SilverStream Solution (Qurion) offers a unique 4-way antimicrobial mechanism—disrupting cell membranes, condensing microbial DNA, interfering with respiration, and inducing apoptosis—providing broad-spectrum activity against biofilm-forming bacteria. Its low concentration of silver ions, synergized with menthol, ensures effective, non-toxic, and painless treatment. Vacuum-assisted suction complements SilverStream by reducing bacterial load, disrupting biofilms, and minimizing infectious material.

The combination therapy (QiVAS) demonstrated:

1. Rapid infection control: Infection resolved within two days.
2. Avoidance of implant removal: A critical outcome for patient recovery and function.
3. Improved healing environment: Enabled continued antibiotic efficacy and tissue repair.

Conclusion

Post-surgery SSI associated with orthopedic implants, particularly those caused by multidrug-resistant, biofilm-forming organisms, are among the most difficult to treat. SilverStream Solution (also marketed as Qurion in some countries), combined with vacuum-assisted suction (QiVAS), represents a novel and highly effective approach for managing these infections. This therapy provides a safe, efficient alternative to implant removal, significantly reducing patient morbidity, healthcare costs, and recovery time.