Recent advances in the implant-based drug delivery in otorhinolaryngology.

Abstract The surgical implant is an interdisciplinary therapeutic modality that offers unique advantages in the daily practice of otorhinolaryngology. Some well-known examples include cochlear implants, bone-anchored hearing aids, sinus stents, and tracheostomy tubes. Neuroprotective, osteogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects are among their established or pursued functions. Implant-based drug delivery affords an efficient and potent approach to enhancing these therapeutic functions. Recent innovations have infiltrated all four elements of a drug-eluting implant. The purpose of this pre-clinical, biotechnology-oriented review is to discuss these developments in terms of the implant biomaterial, loaded medication, delivery pattern, and system fabrication. Cell-mediated neurotrophin release, fabrication of a hydroxyapatite-supported system, biodegradable polymer-based implants, and multiclass and multidrug delivery are some representative advancements. The ultimate goal here is to bridge the gap between biotechnology advances and clinical needs. The review is concluded with a perspective regarding the future opportunities and challenges in this popular and rapidly developing subject of research.