The use of nanomaterials to treat bone infections

A new era of osteomyelitis treatment has been taking strides towards efficient, local administration of antibiotics at the site of infection. By having them localized to the site of infection, this toxicity is no longer an issue and actually has shown to be a more productive treatment for osteomyelitis. Researchers have focused the production of non-biodegradable, antibiotic, infused bone cements specifically designed for proficient osteocyte binding, useful antibiotic release over a desirable period of time, and promotion of bone regeneration. These cements are then surgically placed on the infected site following debridement and irrigation. The problem, however, is that the use of ineffective cements and the overuse of antibiotics has led to the development of resistant bacteria. Due to this, further research is being done in the field of antibiotic discovery and delivery. Specifically, the development of biodegradable materials capable of efficiently delivering antibiotics and also eliminating the need for follow-up surgery to remove the delivery material is being done, thus reducing exposure risk. Nanoparticles have been developed in the forms of scaffolds and injections to deliver a higher degree and longer lasting duration of antibiotic release, while promoting bone regeneration. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.