Abstract: An apparatus for treating fixed biological tissue to inhibit calcification of the biological tissue following implantation thereof in a mammalian body. The apparatus includes a container for placing the biological tissue in contact with a treatment solution, structure to induce relative tissue/solution movement, and structure to heat the solution. The relative movement may be induced by shaking a container in which the tissue is immersed in the treatment solution, or by stirring the solution within the container. The movement may also be induced by flowing a treatment solution past the tissue to be treated. The tissue may be free to move in the treatment container, or may be restrained from gross movements. The flow may be part of a circulation system having a reservoir, with a heater being provided to heat the treatment solution in the reservoir. Alternatively, a treatment apparatus, including a fluid circulation system if desired, may be enclosed in an incubator.

Abstract: The invention involves a method and apparatus for processing biological material, such as heart valves and vascular grafts.

Abstract: The system provides frame means, mechanical loading means, electronic control means and perfusion chamber means in which an accurately cut human or animal trabecular bone sample can be maintained in a viable state for an extended period. A chamber is provided which permits perfusion of the trabecular bone sample with suitable media. Mechanical means are provided for loading of the sample under controlled specified conditions. Second messenger and growth factors may be collected from the perfusion chamber effluent to enable study of samples under a wide variety of perfusion and loading conditions. The system allows viability of the sample to be maintained for in excess of 14 days and permits the study of rate of bone formation and the rate of resorption of trabecular bone.