Antibacterial Agent-Loaded Hydrogels for Implant-Associated Osteomyelitis: A Review

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Implant-associated osteomyelitis (IAO) presents significant challenges due to persistent biofilms and antibiotic resistance.
• Existing treatments are often limited by poor drug penetration and impaired bone regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review advanced hydrogel-based strategies for treating IAO.
• To explore both antibiotic-eluting and non-antibiotic approaches.
• To highlight optimization techniques for enhanced therapeutic efficacy.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on hydrogel applications in IAO treatment.
• Categorization of strategies into antibiotic-loaded and non-antibiotic approaches.
• Analysis of nanomaterial integration, hybrid composites, and alternative therapeutic agents.

Main Results:

• Antibiotic-loaded hydrogels utilize nanomaterials for controlled drug release, reducing toxicity and resistance.
• Non-antibiotic strategies include nanomaterials, peptides, polyphenols, and phage therapy to overcome resistance.
• Optimization strategies like stimuli-responsive systems and biomimicry enhance antibacterial and osteogenic functions.

Conclusions:

• Hydrogels are evolving from passive carriers to multifunctional platforms for IAO treatment.
• These platforms effectively combat resistant bacteria and promote bone regeneration.
• Further research is needed to address persistent challenges and advance hydrogel-based therapies for IAO.