AgBiS2@CQDs/Ti nanocomposite coatings for combating implant-associated infections by photodynamic /photothermal therapy

Biofilm-mediated implant-associated infections are one of the most serious complications of implantation surgery, posing a grave threat to patient well-being. Effectively addressing bacterial infections is crucial for the success of implantation procedures. In this study, we prepared a bismuth sulfide silver@carbon quantum dot composite coating (AgBiS₂@CQDs/Ti) on a medical titanium surface by surface engineering design to treat implant-associated infections. The photocatalytic/photothermal activity test results confirmed the excellent photogenerated ROS and photothermal properties of AgBiS₂@CQDs/Ti under near-infrared laser irradiation. In vitro antibacterial and in vivo anti-infection experiments showed that the coating combined with photodynamic and photothermal therapies to eradicate bacteria and disrupt mature biofilms under 1064 nm laser irradiation. Consequently, AgBiS₂@CQDs/Ti shows promise as an implant coating for treating implant-associated infections post-surgery, thereby enhancing the success rate of implantation procedures. This study also provides a new idea for combating implant-associated infections.