When bacteria come into contact with foreign objects (like implants), they attach to the surface and secrete a protective layer called a biofilm. This means that if you keep the same implants, even though infections can seem under control while you’re on antibiotics, they are extremely likely to get out of control the moment you stop taking antibiotics or if your immune system becomes impaired for any reason (like a poor night’s sleep or a cold). Removing the the implants and leaving them out for 3-6 months allows any bacteria in the tissues to be completely gone before a new implant is replaced. It’s not what anyone wants to have happen, but it’d the best approach for staying infection free for the long run.
