DRUG-DELIVERY CONCEPTS FOR THE EFFICACIOUS PREVENTION OF FOREIGN-BODYINFECTIONS

Several classes of antibiotics released from polyurethanes and silicon es were examined for their activity against foreign body colonization by coagulase-negative staphylococci. Beta-lactans, gyrase inhibitors, aminoglycosides, macrolides and rifampicin were used as antimicrobials to impregnate or load the polymers. Coating of polymeric surfaces by precipitation or adsorption techniques lead to a lower acid shorter dr ug release as compared to polymeric devices with incorporated antibiot ics. Prolonged drug delivery of matrix-loaded polymers exceeding the m icroenvironmental minimal bactericidal concentrations (mMBC), ensured the prevention of bacterial colonization. In this study, we have been able to demonstrate the usefulness of a reproducible long-time antimic robial dosage regime from the internal phase of the implant as compare d to surface coated polymers. In addition, pharmacodynamic aspects and the potential of bonded antibiotics for inducing adverse effects such as resistance development and allergic reactions are discussed.