The use of noble metal coatings and nanoparticles for the modification of medical implant materials

Abstract This review provides information on the use of noble metals, as well as silver and gold nanoparticles to improve the performance of medical implants related to orthopedic and reconstructive surgery. Traditionally, modern biomaterials used for implantation in various fields of medicine are metals and alloys, ceramics, carbon materials, polymers and composites. The existing limitations for the practical application of these materials are also analyzed and various alternatives are discussed. The main attention is paid to the analysis of experimental results on investigation of noble metals (Ir, Pt, Pd, Ag, Au) as multifunctional biocompatible and antibacterial materials in medical practice. In contrast to recent reviews that discussed individual classes of implantable materials or properties and applications of metal nanoparticles, this review attempts to generalize data on the modification of implant surfaces by thin films of platinum group metals and silver or gold nanoparticles. The formation of the “implant of the future” requires a comprehensive approach and solution of interrelated tasks, including selection of effective implant materials and methods of implant surface modification. This review is expected to promote further interest of researchers who are involved in the current level of evaluation and selection of modern biomaterials for medical implant applications.