A novel formulation for combating biofilms and improving orthopaedic surgical wound healing

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One of the most serious complications following orthopaedic surgery is the development of a deep surgical site infection (SSI) that is due to bacteria contamination from various sources including patients themselves and hospital. The bacteria can exist in planktonic form and in biofilms. The biofilm acts as a physical protective barrier of the bacteria from the penetration of antibodies, bacteriophages, granulocytes and biocides, antiseptics, antibiotics[1] and thus lead to the ineffectiveness of antibiotics and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This project addresses these challenges through a holistic post surgery wound care approach: early-stage prophylactic intervention through the application of a novel formulation with multiple nutrients to prevent or control planktonic bacteria from proliferation and forming biofilms on both the implant and tissue surfaces. Secondly, this project explores the formulation's potential for the treatment of biofilm induced infection on the surgical site, if it occurs, through the formulation's enhanced biofilm penetration capability and killing resistant bacteria after the biofilm disintegration. Thirdly, certain compounds in the formulation can promote skin tissue regeneration once infection is kept at bay, which could potentially reduce the time taken for wounds recovery and minimise scar tissue formation.