ACTIVATION OF ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS

摘要

Post-operative infection in joint prostheses is a problem. Embodiments create a coating that can be powered to release microbicidal agents to both ensure the prevention of infections, and avoid the development of antibiotic resistance. Silver ions have been well established for antimicrobial characteristics. Reverse electrolysis allows the ions to be released for a sustained period of time, and then collected back onto to the implant to avoid silver poisoning. A wireless reverse electrolysis system releases a sufficient amount of silver ions to break down biofilm surrounding a joint implant. By applying a modulated current waveform that has a net negative value to a conducting copper strip, the mirror current induced on the silver coating surface has a net positive flow, allowing ions to be released into surrounding tissue. The ability to induce electrolysis of silver ions to kill bacteria can be used to avoid post-operative infection.