Biomaterials in treatment of orthopedic infections

Multiple difficulties occur during treatment of different orthopedic infections such as biofilm formation, osteonecrosis, destruction of bone matrix, and compromised soft tissues and vascularization. Biomaterials can be used to treat the infection and to solve the different treatment difficulties. These biomaterials can elicit local antibacterial therapy, which is necessary for optimal treatment of orthopedic infections. Furthermore, they can also be used as a bone defect filler after debridement surgery. Different types of biomaterials are developed: antibiotic-loaded collagen fleeces and ceramic or composite calcium-based bone graft substitutes as calcium sulfates, calcium phosphates, and hydroxyapatite. Another biomaterial used in treatment of these infections is bioactive glass. In this chapter, the properties of different biomaterials regarding treatment of infection are elucidated and the clinical results of these biomaterials in treatment of chronic osteomyelitis are discussed.