Functional Surface Modification Strategies to Prevent Periprosthetic Joint Infection and Enhance Osseointegration on Metallic Implants

Abstract The continuous enhancement of orthopedic implant surfaces is essential to improving biological integration and minimizing infection-related complications. This work introduces an approach of functional surface modification for metallic implant materials that combines compositional tuning with controlled structural design. The strategy addresses key limitations of conventional implant surfaces by integrating antibacterial functionality and osteogenic support within a single surface system. The developed modification concept involves the formation of a biofunctional layer on metallic substrates, incorporating specific elements or compounds with known antibacterial and cell-stimulating properties. In parallel, the surface morphology is tailored on the micro- and nanoscale through controlled processing to guide cellular attachment and differentiation. The resulting architecture aims to establish a biologically active interface capable of modulating cell–surface interactions and reducing bacterial adhesion. This dual approach enables a tunable balance between antibacterial efficacy and osseointegrative potential, adaptable to various implant materials and design requirements. The modified surfaces were characterized in terms of their morphological, chemical, and biological properties using complementary analytical and in-vitro evaluation techniques. Particular emphasis was placed on correlating structural and compositional parameters with biological performance indicators such as cell adhesion, proliferation, and microbial response. These investigations provide a comprehensive understanding of how engineered surface features contribute to the functional behaviour of implant materials under physiological conditions. Overall, the presented concept demonstrates the effectiveness of combining compositional functionalization with controlled topographical design in developing next-generation implant surfaces. The adaptability of the approach to different metallic substrates and processing routes highlights its potential for translation into various orthopaedic implant applications, providing a versatile pathway toward improved clinical outcomes and the prevention of periprosthetic joint infections (PJI).