A review on Ag-Ta ₂ O ₅ Bio-interfaces: Multifunctional coatings for antibacterial and biocompatible surgical tools

Background Conventional surgical instruments made from Stainless steel (SS), Titanium (Ti), and Tantalum (Ta) are widely utilized because of their excellent corrosion resistance and strength-to-weight ratio. However, these materials lack antibacterial properties, which could increase the risk of surgical site infections. Recent advancements in antimicrobial and biocompatible coatings, particularly Ag-Ta 2 O 5 (Silver-Tantalum Pentoxide), present better solutions for new surgical instrument design. Despite numerous studies published on this topic, a comprehensive review specifically addressing Ag-Ta 2 O 5 coatings remains absent, resulting in fragmented information across the literature. Systematizing this information and consolidating the developments in this field are beneficial, and this is the motivation behind this review. Objective For these reasons, this review examines the development and applications of these advanced coatings, with a focus on their antimicrobial and biocompatible properties. Methods We critically examine the technological challenges, innovative coating methodologies, and the comparative advantages of Ag-Ta 2 O 5 over traditional and hybrid coatings. Results Furthermore, this review identifies future research directions and proposes strategic collaborations among clinicians, engineers, policymakers, and materials scientists to expedite the clinical adoption of these coatings. Conclusion It is envisioned that this review paper will serve as a valuable source of information for engineers, researchers, and clinicians to stay current with the latest developments in this area and for new researchers to initiate their exploration of coating technology.