Tissue Services Tissue Services American Red Cross Tissue Services collects, processes and distributes about one-fifth of the nation's human allograft tissue for transplantation. The Red Cross is one of the nation's largest tissue-gathering and distribution organizations. We also operate a national dental program to provide bone powder materials that enhance new bone growth in a variety of periodontal procedures.
All tissue is procured and processed in a sterile environment.
Donor coordinators work with each donor family to obtain a medical history of the donor. Each donors is tested for diseases such as AIDS and hepatitis. Donated tissue is then processed into almost 400 forms that are either freeze-dried, frozen or fresh. The processed tissue is then used in orthopedic, neurologic, plastic, cardiovascular and oral reconstructive surgery. To become a donor, you sign a donor card or designate your intention on your driver's license.