IONTOPHORETIC STRUCTURE

摘要

An iontophoretic material is provided that uses controlled electrical current derived from two dissimilar galvanic materials to drive oligodynamic metal ions into solution to kill microorganisms on and near the material. Iontophoretic structures or material associated with a medical device are partially or completely covered with one or more covering layers that alter physical, mechanical, chemical, or biological properties of the device and/or the iontophoretic material. In addition to being partially coated or completely enveloped by iontophoretic material or structures, all or a portion of a medical device can be integrated with, impregnated by, or fabricated from an iontophoretic material.