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Amikacin Coated 3D-Printed Metal Devices for Prevention of Postsurgical Infections (PSIs).
Chu Zhang1, Ishwor Poudel1, Nur Mita1,2
1Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
Pharmaceutics
|July 30, 2025
Summary
Personalized 3D-printed implants coated with amikacin-loaded polymers show effective bacterial inhibition. This localized antibiotic delivery system offers customizable drug release to prevent implant-associated infections.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Drug Delivery Systems
- Orthopedic Implants
Background:
- 3D-printed (3DP) metallic implants offer personalized solutions for bone fractures, but postsurgical infections remain a challenge.
- Local antibiotic delivery is crucial for minimizing implant-related infections.
- Amikacin (AMK), a broad-spectrum antibiotic, was investigated for incorporation into 3DP implants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate amikacin-loaded polymer coatings on 3D-printed 316L stainless steel implants.
- To assess the drug release profile and antibacterial efficacy of the coated implants.
Main Methods:
- 3D-printed 316L stainless steel implants were coated with amikacin using chitosan and poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) polymers.
- Various coating formulations were tested to optimize drug release characteristics.
- Antibacterial activity was evaluated against common infective pathogens.
Main Results:
- The AMK-chitosan with PLGA coating controlled amikacin release for up to one month.
- 3DP drug-loaded implants demonstrated concentration-dependent antibacterial activity.
- Antimicrobial effectiveness was observed for one week, significantly inhibiting bacterial growth compared to controls.
Conclusions:
- 3D-printed metal surfaces coated with amikacin provide customizable drug release profiles.
- This approach effectively inhibits bacterial growth, showing potential for preventing implant-associated infections.
- Combining 3D printing with localized delivery advances personalized therapies for bone fracture repair.
