Patients with implanted medical devices like orthopedic joint replacements, pacemakers, and artificial heart valves run a small but significant risk that these devices get infected with bacterial pathogens. This starts them on a burdensome path requiring “redo” (revision) surgeries, prolonged antibiotic treatments, or, in severe cases, amputation. If the infections spread in the patients’ bodies, they can even become fatal.
Biomaterial vaccines could make implanted orthopedic devices safer
