Electrophoretically deposited hydroxyapatite-based composite coatings loaded with silver and gentamicin as antibacterial agents

Increasing need for improved, compatible bone tissue implants led to the intensive research of novel biomaterials, especially hydroxyapatite (HAP)-based composite materials on titanium and titanium alloy surfaces. Owing to its excellent biocompatibility and osteoinductivity properties, hydroxyapatite is often used as part of composite biomaterials aimed for orthopedic implant applications. In order to overcome persistent problems of bacterial infection, various antimicrobial agents and materials and their incorporation in such medical devices were investigated. This paper represents a comprehensive review of single-step electrodeposition on titanium of hydroxyapatite/chitosan/graphene composite coatings loaded with silver and antibiotic gentamicin as antibacterial agents. The improvement of mechanical and adhesive properties of deposited composite coatings was achieved by graphene and chitosan addition, while desirable antibacterial properties were introduced by including antibiotic gentamicin and silver. The biocompatibility of electrodeposited HAP and HAP-based composite coatings was evaluated by MTT testing, indicating a non-cytotoxic effect and high potential for future medical use as orthopedic implant coating.