Fraunhofer develops dual infection protection for implants
Fraunhofer IFAM has developed a novel hybrid coating combining silver and individually selected antibiotics to reduce infection risk for medical implants.
Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Technology and Applied Materials Research (IFAM) in Bremen have developed a two-part protective measure for medical implants aimed at preventing infections. The new approach involves a hybrid coating for the implant that incorporates both antibacterial silver and a patient-specific antibiotic.
Implant surgeries, such as those for artificial hip or knee joints, carry an average infection risk of 1-2%. While this percentage is low, it affects a significant number of patients annually, and the number of such procedures is expected to rise. Infections can lead to prolonged recovery periods and may necessitate the replacement of the implant.
The technology developed by Fraunhofer IFAM utilizes the long-term antimicrobial properties of silver alongside the faster, targeted action of an antibiotic. The project, named AntiSelektInfekt, was conducted in collaboration with a research team from Charité University Hospital in Berlin, who have tested and validated the coating's effectiveness in preclinical studies.
The method involves structuring the implant surface with a laser to create microscopic pores. Silver particles and the antibiotic are then integrated into the coating. The antibiotic is released quickly, while the silver provides extended protection during the healing phase. The research aims to significantly decrease implant-associated infections.