Biomaterial-Related Infections

Abstract

Several methods have been developed to combat device‐related infections, based on anti‐infective biomaterials that repel microbes. Among these strategies, surface coating with antibiotics (e.g., beta-lactams), natural compounds (e.g., polyphenols), or inorganic elements (e.g., silver and copper nanoparticles) have been widely recognized as exhibiting broad-spectrum bactericidal or bacteriostatic activity. So, in order to achieve a better therapeutic response, it is crucial to understand how these infections are different from others to find new biomaterials, characterized by antifouling coatings, with repellent properties or low adhesion towards microorganisms, or antimicrobial coatings, which are capable of killing microbes, approaching the surface, improving biomaterials’ functionalization strategies, and supporting tissues’ bio-integration.