Professional standards in cell and tissue processing.

Abstract

In the United States, standards for cell and tissue processing have been developed by a variety of professional tissue banking organizations. Several organizations, including the American Association of Tissue Banks and the Eye Bank Association of America, have accreditation programs for member institutions. Some governmental agencies, such as the New York State Department of Health and the Food and Drug Administration, have adopted strict regulations, which may subject noncompliant tissue banks to certain enforcement actions. Professional tissue banking organizations have also issued guidelines that provide recommendations for implementing efficacious policies and procedures for the acquisition, processing, storage, and distribution of tissues.