Biohackers and Self-Made Problems: Infection of an Implanted RFID/NFC Chip: A Case Report

JBJS Case Connect. 2020 Apr-Jun;10(2):e0399. doi: 10.2106/JBJS.CC.19.00399.

Abstract

Case: We describe the case of a 26-year-old man with an infected Radio-Frequency-Identification/Near Field Communication (RFID/NFC) chip in the middle finger. The RFID/NFC chip was removed, the soft tissue debrided, and a pan-sensitive staphylococcus aureus was detected by sonication of the RFID/NFC chip. The patient was postoperatively treated with amoxicillin and clavulanic acid (24 hours iv, total 11 days) and an intrinsic plus splint which led to complete recovery.

Conclusion: Modern body modifications can lead to infections which shouldn't be underestimated. Interdisciplinary treatment is a key to success.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Amoxicillin-Potassium Clavulanate Combination / administration & dosage
  • Debridement
  • Foreign-Body Reaction / drug therapy
  • Foreign-Body Reaction / etiology*
  • Foreign-Body Reaction / surgery
  • Humans
  • Implants, Experimental / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Radio Frequency Identification Device*
  • Staphylococcus aureus / isolation & purification

Substances

  • Amoxicillin-Potassium Clavulanate Combination