DAC® is a bio-absorbable hydrogel that, spread on the implant surface, acts a physical barrier for prevention of post-surgical infections.

The mechanism of infection: The race to the surface

In case of contamination of the implant surface, colonisation by pathogens results in formation of a barrier known as Biofilm.
Biofilm is an impervious polymeric matrix, able to make the bacterial colony resistant to antibiotic treatment and the patients immune system

the infection mechanism follows three stages in quick succession

  • Immediately after surgery

    Pathogens begin to adhere to the prosthetic surface.

  • Few minutes after surgery

    Pathogens start to multiply and irreversibly fix themselves to the implant.

  • Few hours after surgery

    In the absence of a reaction of the organism, the bacterial colony starts biofilm production.

The Hydrogel barrier to infection

The application of DAC® disrupts the ability of pathogens to bind to the implant surface, inhibiting the initial stages of bacterial colonisation that would then result in biofilm formation.

DAC® forms a hydrogel that acts as a temporary barrier, providing an effective mechanism for prevention of bacterial infection.

The DAC® Hydrogel defensive mechanism can be illustrated in three stages:

  • Immediately before surgery

    The implant surface is evenly coated with the DAC® hydrogel.

  • Immediately after surgery

    Bacterial adhesion and colonisation of the implant surface is interrupted by the DAC® hydrogel layer and by its hydrophilic properties.

  • Few days after surgery

    Bacteria left on the implant surface or on the hydrogel are identified and attacked by the immune system.