Tissue is used in a wide range of vital medical procedures. Examples include salvaging limbs following tumor surgery, reconstructing hip and knee joints, and correcting curvature of the spine. How Tissue Is Gathered Tissue is obtained from deceased or surgical donors who are tested for diseases such as AIDS and hepatitis. To become donors, individuals can sign a donor card or designate their intention on their driver's license. Most importantly, they must inform their loved ones about their decision.
All tissue is procured and processed in a sterile environment.
Donated tissue is then processed into almost 400 forms that are either freeze-dried, frozen, and fresh. The processed tissue can then be used in orthopedic, neurologic, plastic, cardiovascular, and oral reconstructive surgery. Red Cross Tissue Services also operates a national dental program to provide bone powder materials that enhance new bone growth in a variety of periodontal procedures. Educate the public and health professionals about the needs and benefits of tissue donation. Train transplant technicians so that tissue is available for transplantation.