a method for the preparation of antimicrobially active materials is presented . the invention involves taking a base material such as allografts , xenografts , polymers , metals , and ceramics and combining it with an antimicrobially active agent , such as antibiotics , antibacterials , antifungals , antivirals , disinfectants , and polypeptides , after which it is irradiated with ionizing radiation to sterilize and stabilize the combined material . the resulting antimicrobially active material may then be stored at ambient temperature while maintaining its antimicrobial activity and the structural integrity of the base material . the invention is particularly useful for both preventing and treating a variety of infections and for increased safety in reconstructive procedures .