Decreasing Latitude and Increasing Regulation in Transplantable Tissue Programs

• ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY and improved surgical techniques have led to new therapeutic uses for allografts. • DISEASE TRANSMISSION via allograft tissue transplants has prompted federal intervention in the tissue banking industry and resulted in federal regulations. • NEW STANDARDS from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations became effective July 1,2005, and apply to all hospitals that store or implant allograft tissues. These standards include mandatory policies on all aspects of hospital transplantation programs, including tissue ordering, receipt, storage, issuance, and record keeping. AORN J 82 (November 2005) 806–814.