Premixed antibiotic bone cement: an in vitro comparison of antimicrobial efficacy

J Arthroplasty. 2008 Sep;23(6 Suppl 1):110-4. doi: 10.1016/j.arth.2008.03.014. Epub 2008 Jul 9.

Abstract

After Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of premixed antibiotic bone cements (polymethylmethacrylate [PMMA]), these products are being used with increasing frequency during revision and primary hip and knee arthroplasties. To date, no studies have compared the antimicrobial efficacy of more than 2 products directly. Using a 7-day modified Kirby-Bauer assay, we assessed the in vitro antibacterial properties of 5 FDA-approved, commercially available antibiotic PMMAs. Significant differences in antimicrobial activity were noted among the antibiotic PMMA products included in this investigation. Antibacterial activity of all products tested was greatest on day 1 and rapidly diminished thereafter. Results of this investigation suggest that the antibacterial efficacies of premixed antibiotic PMMA products are not equivalent.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Bacteria / drug effects*
  • Bone Cements*
  • Gentamicins / administration & dosage
  • Microbial Sensitivity Tests
  • Polymethyl Methacrylate*
  • Staphylococcus aureus / drug effects
  • Time Factors
  • Tobramycin / administration & dosage

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Bone Cements
  • Gentamicins
  • Polymethyl Methacrylate
  • Tobramycin