Abstract
The success of allotransplants is critically dependent on both tissue viability and efficient removal of potentially toxic cryopreservants. In this study we analysed the dimethyl sulphoxide (Me2SO) content of cardiovascular tissue samples stored in tissue banks and optimized a washing protocol to be used before surgical implant. We compared the Me2SO content of heart valves, arteries and veins and quantitatively determined by HPLC the washing kinetics of each group of tissue samples under strictly controlled conditions using an industrial washing medium(BASE).Our results showed that heart valves and arteries have significantly slower Me2SO release kinetics than veins. Approximately 20 % of the initial content of cryopreservant could still be detected in the valves and arterial tissue after 15 min
24 of continuous washing. Conversely, veins were almost completely cleared of the cryoprotectant under the same conditions. We propose a washing protocol consisting of two sequential washing with BASE for a total of 25 min for valves and arteries and 15 min for veins. In our hands, this protocol reliably ensures the removal of more than 95 % of the initial Me2SO content.

Abstract: Elimination of DMSO from cryopreserved skin allografts is one of the crucial steps in tissue processing in order to warrant tissue safety and quality. The aim of the study was to monitor the DMSO removal from cryopreserved human skin and validate the rinsing procedure of the tissue with the medical device BASE.

Abstract: Elimination of DMSO from cryopreserved allografts is one of the crucial steps in tissue processing in order to warrant tissue safety and quality. The aim of the study was to evaluate the DMSO removal from cryopreserved human
cardiovascular tissue after rinsing with the BASE medical device and to validate the rinsing procedure of the tissue with BASE.

Abstract: We evaluated the performances of the HTP medical devices in comparison with solutions currently used by the Cardiovascular Tissue Bank of Emilia-Romagna (CTBER) and the Cardiovascular Tissue Bank of Lombardy (CTBL).

Heart valves and blood vessels were procured from HB and NHB donors. Tissues were divided in half and processed in parallel using the HTP products or solutions prepared by the banks.

Abstract: Elimination of Me2SO from cryopreserved allografts is one of the crucial steps in tissue processing phases in order to guarantee the tissue safety and quality. The aim of the study was to monitor the Me2SO removal from cryopreserved pig skin and heart valves and validate a rinsing procedure with BASE to eliminate Me2SO.