Review-Antibiotic Beads

The appropriate use of antimicrobial agents has decreased morbidity and mortality from orthopedic-related infections. Although systemic antibiotic use has been used for many years, new methods of local antibiotic delivery may result in increased antibiotic levels, decreased toxicity, and possibly greater efficacy. Antibioticloaded beads are bactericidal, have a dose-dependent killing curve, remain stable when exposed to heat and are soluble in water. Antibiotic beads are available in the form of biodegradable and nonbiodegradable which has its own advantages and disadvantages.