It is widely recognized that Antibacterial Sutures have emerged as the new gold standard in various global regions, and their use has prevented many Surgical Site Infections (SSI). Over the past 20 years, numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the value of preventing bacterial colonization of the suture surface by incorporation of an antimicrobial agent – resulting in decreased clinical occurrence of SSI. Such studies have corroborated the conclusions from the bench-top microbiological and in-vivo animal model study results, originally generated for these products during their development engendering confidence in their predictive value.

The currently markets Triclosan-based antibacterial suture technology has remained relatively stagnant on the market for over two decades, lacking notable innovations to further enhance its performance. As such, this important and high growth wound closure market segment is ripe for innovation.  The introduction of superior copper based antimicrobial/antibacterial products offers an excellent opportunity to benefit patient outcomes and to improve the competitive position and segment penetration of suture manufacturers.

Due to its complex involvement in numerous biochemical cascades, researchers have tended to overlook copper as an in-vivo antibacterial agent despite its well-established benefits and efficacy in other applications. The copper ion interactions with proteins and other moieties can render liberated copper ions ineffective at establishing a sufficient concentration to prevent bacterial colonization.  Historically this has resulted in a design challenge to achieve in-vivo efficacy with such approaches.

Through dedicated research efforts and innovative approaches, Curical has pioneered a copper-based antibacterial technology that can be seamlessly integrated into braided absorbable sutures via conventional suture manufacturing processes in a way that, upon implantation, establishes an appropriate copper ion liberation profile and local copper concentration to prevent surface colonization of braided sutures.