Abstract: This invention provides for a curable antimicrobial coating system comprising a base coating composition and a top coat coating composition wherein each contains and antimicrobial agent. The base coat forms a non-hydrophilic polymer layer and the top coat preferably forms a hydrophilic polymer layer or a non-hydrophilic polymer layer which does not preclude the release of the antimicrobial agent. This two-layer coating is especially designed for erosive environments and provides continual antimicrobial activity regardless of the stage of wear or erosion.

Abstract: A suturing ring to attach the body of an implantable heart valve to heart tissue by sutures is composed of a fabric containing an inorganic antimicrobial agent. The fabric can have a material coating the fibers of the fabric in which particles of the agent are embedded. The coating material can be elastomeric and the fabric porous, to improve its flexibility, or non-porous and the fabric ring can be coated with a tissue compatible substance such as collagen. One type of ring has an annular top part to fit over one of top and bottom surfaces of the valve body and defining an opening to the heart valve, a step wall depending from the annular top part to extend along said valve body wall and an outwardly extending flange through which the sutures are to be sewn.

Abstract: An orthopedic surgical implant of one or more components having a surface which is to be contacted by body tissue and/or fluid. The surface contains an inorganic antimicrobial agent either incorporated in the material forming a component having the surface or incorporated in a coating, such as of the adhesive or powder spray type, applied to the surface.