Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden have developed a groundbreaking method using gold nanorods to sterilize surgical implants, like hip and knee prostheses. This new technology offers a powerful solution for fighting implant-related infections, a major concern in medical procedures.
The technique attaches gold nanorods to implant surfaces. When exposed to near-infrared (NIR) light, the nanorods heat to over 120°C, acting like tiny “frying pans” that kill bacteria on contact while leaving surrounding tissue unharmed.
This method reduces infection risks, lowers antibiotic dependence, and tackles antibiotic resistance. The NIR activation provides precise antibacterial action, offering a highly efficient approach.
Published in Nano Letters, the study highlights gold’s unmatched value in advanced medical applications, from sterilization to addressing antibiotic-resistant bacteria, underscoring its significant role in scientific and healthcare advancements.
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