Antimicrobial Strategies Used in the Design of Coating Materials for Biomedical Implants

In the coming years, the demand for biomedical implants is expected to grow significantly, driven by an aging population and longer life expectancies. This demographic trend underscores the critical need for advanced biomaterials that improve implant performance and durability, meeting personalized requirements of patients. Emerging trends in this area include biodegradable metals and alloys that gradually dissolve in the body, reducing the necessity for additional surgeries. Recent studies on biodegradable metal alloys, such as magnesium (Mg) and zinc (Zn), emphasize the necessity to control their degradation rate. To solve this issue, biodegradable implants can be coated with biomimetic functional ceramic materials, significantly improving their properties and creating a suitable interface with the surrounding bone tissue. These coatings, are primarily composed of multi-substituted calcium phosphates doped with couples of bioactive antimicrobial ions, such as Sr-Cu, Sr-Mn, etc. in order to boost their antibacterial potential. A crucial aspect of biomedical implants is the development of antimicrobial biomaterials addresses the critical challenge of infection, which is essential for sustainable medical practices that minimize antibiotic use. Research into the synthesis of antimicrobial materials and the development of antimicrobial surfaces is ongoing, with comprehensive characterization revealing structural, morphological, and mechanical features that enhance the performance. In vitro bioactivity, cell interaction and bacteria tests further validate their potential. Overall, these innovations represent a shift towards more personalized, efficient, and safe medical implants, promising improving surgical practices and better outcomes for patients.