Local Antibiotic Delivery: Recent Basic and Translational Science Insights in Orthopedics Publisher Pubmed



Hoveidaei AH¹ ; Mosalamiaghili S² ; Sabaghian A³ ; Hajiaghajani S⁴ ; Farsani AS⁵ ; Sahebi M⁶ ; Poursalehian M⁷ ; Nwankwo BO^{1, 8} ; Conway JD¹
Source: Bone Published:2025

Abstract

Background: Infections remain a significant challenge in orthopedic settings despite advancements in preventive measures. Antibiotics are the primary defense against infections, but optimal delivery methods to the infection site are still being investigated. This review aims to examine existing approaches for local drug delivery from a basic science perspective. Recent findings: Achieving adequate antibiotic concentration at the infection site is challenging due to compromised vasculature in ischemic conditions. Local administration methods, including antibiotic-loaded carriers such as impregnated bone grafts and various bone substitutes, are being explored as alternatives to systemic antibiotic use. Various materials, including polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), hydroxyapatite, calcium phosphate/sulfate, bone glass, and hydrogel, are being investigated for local antibiotic delivery. Some of these materials possess inherent antibacterial properties due to their chemical interactions. The selection of appropriate antibiotics, their dosage, release kinetics from the carrier material, physical behavior of the material/graft, and biocompatibility are key areas for further investigation in basic science research. © 2025 Elsevier Inc.