Advances in Antimicrobial Coatings for Preventing Infections of Head-Related Implantable Medical Devices

Abstract

During surgery and after, pathogens can contaminate indwelling and implanted medical devices, resulting in serious infections. Microbial colonization, infection, and later biofilm formation are major complications associated with the use of implants and represent major risk factors in implant failure. Despite the fact that aseptic surgery and the use of antimicrobial medications can lower the risk of infection, systemic antibiotic use can result in a loss of efficacy, increased tissue toxicity, and the development of drug-resistant diseases. This work explores the advancements in antimicrobial coatings for head-related implantable medical devices, addressing the critical issue of infection prevention. It emphasizes the significance of these coatings in reducing biofilm formation and microbial colonization and highlights various techniques and materials used in creating effective antimicrobial surfaces. Moreover, this article presents a comprehensive overview of the current strategies and future directions in antimicrobial coating research, aiming to improve patient outcomes by preventing head-related implant-associated infections.

Surfactants’ Interplay with Biofilm Development in Staphylococcus and Candida

“…Due to their ability to enhance the solubility of hydrophobic molecules with antimicrobial properties, permeabilize cell membranes, and effectively disrupt micro-organism adhesion to surfaces, surfactants, particularly those with a reduced toxicity, could be employed in various combinations to enhance the efficacy of antimicrobials or optimize nosocomial infection control. Recent studies have focused on finding effective strategies to combat microbial biofilms, including the exploration of (i) natural compounds [78], (ii) antimicrobial nanomaterials and nanoformulations [79], and (iii) antibiofilm coatings of indwelling medical devices [80]. In this context, surfactants could significantly enhance the efficacy of pathogen control, particularly on medical instruments, by integrating them into surface coatings.…”