Prophylactic bactericidal medical device

摘要

A medical implant system is described for inhibiting infection associated with a joint prosthesis implant. An inventive system includes an implant body made of a biocompatible material which has a metal component disposed on an external surface of the implant body. A current is allowed to flow to the metal component, stimulating release of metal ions toxic to microbes, such as bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and viruses. One detailed system is completely surgically implantable in the patient such that no part of the system is external to the patient while the system is in use. In addition, externally controlled devices are provided which allow for modulation of implanted components.

主权项

1. A medical device adapted to be in contact with tissue or fluid associated with an organism, comprising:
a component that contacts the tissue or fluid associated with the organism, said component having a first element and a second element; an antimicrobial material associated with the first element of the component; a current generator connected to the component such that a flow of antimicrobial ions is created from the antimicrobial material into the tissue or fluid adjacent the component, wherein the first element and the second element are electrically isolated from each other via an insulative material.