|
Anyone can be considered as a tissue donor. After your death, there is a careful process by which the tissues are examined and determined useful for transplantation.
A licensed physician makes the first decision. A lengthy questionnaire is answered by the family. The donor is examined and/or the autopsy report is reviewed.
Certain diseases, illnesses, and conditions may keep some donor tissue from being used. For example, musculoskeletal tissue won't be used from anyone with a connective tissue disease or auto-immune system dysfunction.
Likewise, exposure to toxic substances, the presence of rheumatoid arthritis, or bone disease makes the tissue ineligible for use. The donor's blood is screened for any infectious diseases. There can't be any antibodies for hepatitis or HIV.
From there the collection and storage process for the donor's tissue is reviewed carefully. Proper temperature control and sterilization techniques must be used. Many advances and improvements have been made in these procedures making it possible to store some tissue for up to 10 years.
There are several organizations willing to help individuals make this decision and complete the necessary paperwork ahead of time. For more information, you can contact The Living Bank. This organization is an independent non-profit public interest foundation. They can help you become an organ or tissue donor.
|
