The insertion of implants and medical devices has emerged as a common and often life-saving procedure. Devices predispose to infection by damaging or invading epithelial or mucosal barriers and by supporting growth of micro-organisms, thus serving as reservoirs. Invasive medical devices impair host defence mechanisms and when contaminated, can result in resistant chronic infection or tissue necrosis, the major objections to extended use of implant devices. Implant devices today account for approximately 45% of all nosocomial infections. Implant infections are extremely resistant to antibiotics and host defences and frequently persist until the implant is removed, which is the standard therapy.
My work aims towards immobilizing protease to the polymer surface thereby reducing the chances of nosocomial infections.
