How Tissue is Used

Many people will lead improved, healthier lives because you or your loved one made the generous decision to donate. Each year, nearly a million tissue transplant surgeries are performed in the United States, allowing patients to become stronger and more mobile. Here are examples of recovered tissues and how they are used:

Bone
• Facial reconstruction
• Limb salvage
• Correction of birth defects
• Cancer treatments
• Spinal and oral surgery

Fascia (fibrous tissue that covers the muscles)
• Repairs tendons, ligaments and deformities

Heart valves
• Replaces valves weakened by disease or congenital defects

Ligaments
• Repair joint injuries

Pericardium (membranous bag that surrounds the heart)
• Provides patch grafts in cardiac procedures, especially in children

Skin
• Acts as a temporary covering for burns
• Decreases pain, infection, scarring, heat and fluid loss

Tendons
• Repair joint injuries

Veins
• Improve leg circulation
• Used in coronary bypass surgery
• Preserves lower limbs