Bioactive delivery systems for the slow release of antibiotics: incorporation of Ag super(+) ions into micro-porous hydroxyapatite coatings

Adsorption and immobilization of Ag super(+) ions into micro-porous hydroxyapatite (HA) coatings by an ion-exchange mechanism is described as a method for fabricating bioactive delivery systems for the slow release of antimicrobial silver ions. The slow release of Ag super(+) ions from this system was confirmed by in vitro tests at 37 degree C in a simulated body fluid (SBF) solution having a chemical composition close to that of human blood plasma. FTIR spectroscopic analysis further confirmed the formation of a bone-like apatite on the coating surface after 1 week exposure to SBF, indicating that these coatings, similar to pure HA and Bioglass super((R)) may form strong bonds with living bone through a carbonated apatite interface.