Experimental nanofiber coating prevents prosthetic joint infections

Editor's Note

In a study on mice, Johns Hopkins researchers have shown that a coating made with antibiotic-releasing nanofibers can prevent bacterial infections after total joint surgery.

After 14 days, mice that received implants without the antibiotic coating all had bacteria in infected tissue around the joint, and 80% had bacteria on the surface of the implant. Mice that received antibiotic-coated implants had no detectable bacteria on the implants or surrounding tissue.

The researchers say the technology could have broad applicability in orthopedic prostheses as well as pacemakers, stents, and other implantable devices.

In contrast to other coatings in development, the researchers note that the new material can release multiple antibiotics in a strategically timed way for an optimal effect. 

In a proof-of-concept study with mice, scientists at The Johns Hopkins University show that a novel coating they made with antibiotic-releasing nanofibers has the potential to better prevent at least some serious bacterial infections related to total joint replacement surgery.