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Effects of Sterilization Techniques on Bioactivity of Polymethyl Methacrylate Antibiotic Beads Containing Vancomycin

James Shaw1, Joshua Gary, Andrea Baker

  • 1McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health and Science Center, Houston, Texas.

Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma
|March 21, 2020
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Sterilizing and storing antibiotic polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) beads for up to six months maintains their bioactivity. This allows for prefabrication, potentially reducing surgical time and enabling use in diverse clinical settings.

Area of Science:

  • Biomaterials Science
  • Infectious Disease Research
  • Surgical Innovation

Background:

  • Antibiotic-eluting polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) beads are crucial in orthopedic surgery for infection prevention.
  • Current protocols often require immediate use, limiting logistical flexibility.
  • Prefabrication and storage could enhance efficiency and expand clinical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the impact of different sterilization methods (autoclave, ethylene oxide, UV light) on the bioactivity of antibiotic-loaded PMMA beads.
  • To determine the effect of extended storage periods (up to 6 months) on bead efficacy.
  • To compare the bioactivity of sterilized and stored beads with freshly prepared sterile beads.

Main Methods:

  • Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) beads loaded with tobramycin and vancomycin were prepared.
  • Beads were sterilized using autoclave, ethylene oxide (ETO), or ultraviolet (UV) light, with a sterile-prepared group as control.
  • Eluted antibiotic bioactivity was assessed via zones of inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus.
  • Testing was conducted after 24 hours, 1 week, and at storage intervals of 1, 3, and 6 months.

Main Results:

  • Sterilization via autoclave, ETO, and UV light did not significantly alter the bioactivity of antibiotic elution compared to controls.
  • Beads stored for up to 6 months exhibited bioactivity comparable to immediately tested sterile beads.
  • No significant negative impact on elution or bioactivity was observed across tested sterilization methods and storage durations.

Conclusions:

  • Sterile-prefabricated antibiotic-PMMA beads containing vancomycin and tobramycin retain efficacy after storage for up to 6 months.
  • Autoclaving, ETO gas, and UV light are suitable sterilization methods for these antibiotic beads.
  • The findings support the feasibility of sterilizing and storing antibiotic beads for extended periods without compromising therapeutic effect, offering a more flexible clinical option.

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