NITK researchers develop antimicrobial coating for orthopaedic implants

Mangaluru: Researchers at the National Institute of Technology Karnataka have developed a first-of-its-kind advanced bioactive, mechanically durable, and localised antimicrobial coating technology for orthopaedic implants, particularly for hip and knee joint replacements. The patented innovation marks a milestone in indigenous biomedical engineering and represents a step forward in improving patient outcomes for millions of orthopaedic implant recipients in India and globally.

Addressing the growing challenges of implant-associated infections, implant loosening, and the suboptimal long-term performance of conventional implants, the NITK research team has developed a durable bioactive and antimicrobial composite coating that can be directly applied to implant surfaces using an optimised High Velocity Oxy-Fuel (HVOF) thermal spray process.

The coating is engineered to deliver localised antimicrobial protection while simultaneously improving the mechanical durability, wear resistance, coating adhesion, and bone integration of the implant. Enhanced osseointegration enables stronger bonding between the bone and implant, while the antimicrobial functionality combats bacterial growth at the implant site, substantially reducing the risk of post-surgical infections.

Preclinical studies conducted by the research team demonstrated promising performance compared to conventional implants currently available in the market. The technology has the potential to significantly reduce the need for revision surgeries and improve long-term patient outcomes — developments that carry profound implications for healthcare costs and patient quality of life.

The innovation has resulted in multiple international research publications, and the technology has been granted a patent. The research team is currently working towards clinical translation and commercialisation, with the patented technology already being translated into a deep-tech startup established to bring the solution to market.

Research team

The technology was developed by Dr Sudhakar C Jambagi, Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at National Institute of Technology Karnataka, and his doctoral student Dr Deep Shankar, who completed his PhD under Dr Jambagi’s supervision and has since gone on to found and lead the deep-tech startup created to commercialise the technology.

The innovation was developed under the ‘Make in India’ initiative and is aligned with the Government of India’s vision of ‘Swastha Bharat’ and ‘Viksit Bharat’ by promoting indigenous biomedical technology and delivering affordable, advanced healthcare solutions.