Are Allografts Safe?
Northwest Tissue Services takes many steps to protect the safety of patients who receive tissue transplants. Quality controls begin with the recovery of tissues and extend through processing, storage, labeling, packaging and distribution. NWTS strictly adheres to all Good Tissue Practices required by the FDA, and the American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB).
Trained personnel complete an extensive medical and social history with the donor's next of kin. Potential donors are disqualified if they have diseases, other exposures or behaviors that might result in a risk to recipients.
All tissue is tested for microbiological contaminants, both when it is recovered and after it is processed. Allograft cultures must test negative to prevent the transmission of infection.
Finally, each allograft is aseptically packaged and stored appropriately to protect recipient safety. Allografts have been used in surgery for many years with excellent results. Any risk must be weighed against the many benefits.