What role do microbial biofilms play in chronic infections according to the chapter?

Microbial biofilms play a significant role in chronic infections, with over 65% of such infections being caused by them. They can form on medical devices like prosthetic heart valves, leading to persistent infections that are difficult to treat.

Microbial biofilms are a major factor in chronic infections, accounting for over 65% of these cases. These biofilms can form on medical devices, such as prosthetic heart valves, and consist of clusters of bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus. The biofilms protect the bacteria from the immune system and antibiotics, making the infections persistent and challenging to eradicate. This can lead to severe complications, as seen in the case of Mr. Jones, where a biofilm on his artificial heart valve contributed to a fatal infection.