Targeted antibiotic gel helps 80% of pilot patients avoid foot amputation, Jerusalem trial finds

A clinical pilot study at Jerusalem's Shaare Zedek Medical Center found that an Israeli-developed antibiotic gel, GentaGel, helped 80% of patients avoid foot amputation. The technology, developed by GentaGel, delivers antibiotics directly to severe infection sites for up to 60 days using a biodegradable polymer. The pilot included 10 diabetic patients with severe foot ulcers and bone infections who were candidates for amputation; eight recovered without the procedure, showing wound closure and bone regrowth. Dr. Mati Nof, the study's principal investigator, stated, "Based on the findings from the pilot with 10 patients, I became convinced that there is real potential to heal infected bone without the need for amputation." GentaGel is now pursuing additional studies and regulatory approval in the US.