Abstract: A method for processing and preserving an acellular collagen-based tissue matrix for transplantation is disclosed. The method includes the steps of processing biological tissues with a stabilizing solution to reduce procurement damage, treatment with a processing solution to remove cells, treatment with a cryoprotectant solution followed by freezing, drying, storage and rehydration under conditions that preclude functionally significant damage and reconstitution with viable cells.

Abstract: A method of determining the dimensional characteristics of a biological object included: measuring without physical contact or disruption of sterility the length, width and height above or below a reference plane of the biological object with an optical distance measuring device thereby creating a data set; and processing the data set in a computer so as to determine the dimensional characteristics of the biological feature. Preferably the optical distance measuring means is a laser based distance measuring device and the storage of x axis values, y axis values and distance values is in the electronic memory of a computer. The biological surface may be a wound bed or a dermal surface, or alternatively the biological surface may be vascular tissue including heart valves, veins and arteries.

Abstract: This invention provides a method for prolonging the preservation of human blood platelets at reduced temperatures. The method uses an inhibitor system that enables blood platelets to retain their functional integrity during storage. In addition, the inhibitor system prevents the generation of cytokines in the platelet preparation during storage at both 22° C. and 4° C. This is accomplished by interrupting normal platelet function during storage, so as to help keep platelets from activating and losing their shape. Before using the platelets in a transfusion, they are returned to their normal functional level by washing the inhibitor system away from the platelets.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods, apparatus and solutions for cryopreserving microscopic biological materials for biologically extended periods of time. The method comprises treating a suspension of biological material, in an appropriate buffer, with a cryoprotectant or combination of cryoprotectants which raises the glass transition temperature range of the sample. One or more dry protectants may be added to the cryosolution. The cryosolution is then nebulized and rapidly cooled with novel apparatus, dried by molecular distillation, stored and then rehydrated in a buffer prior to its use. The solutions comprise novel mixtures of cryoprotectants.

Abstract: This invention provides a method for prolonging the preservation of human blood platelets at reduced temperatures. The method uses an inhibitor system that enables blood platelets to maintain their discoid shape and retain their functional integrity during storage. This is accomplished by interrupting normal platelet function during storage, so as to help keep platelets from activating and losing their shape. Before using the platelets in a transfusion, they are returned to their normal functional level by washing the inhibitor system away from the platelets. In particular, compositions comprising amiloride, adenosine and sodium nitroprusside are disclosed.

Abstract: This invention provides a method for prolonging the preservation of human blood platelets at reduced temperatures. The method uses an inhibitor system that enables blood platelets to maintain their discoid shape and retain their functional integrity during storage. This is accomplished by interrupting normal platelet function during storage, so as to help keep platelets from activating and losing their shape. Before using the platelets in a transfusion, they are returned to their normal functional level by washing the inhibitor system away from the platelets.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods, apparatus and solutions for cryopreserving microscopic biological materials for biologically extended periods of time. The method comprises treating a suspension of biological material, in an appropriate buffer, with a cryoprotectant or combination of cryoprotectants which raises the glass transition temperature range of the sample. One or more dry protectants may be added to the cryosolution. The cryosolution is then nebulized and rapidly cooled with novel apparatus, dried by molecular distillation, stored and then rehydrated in a buffer prior to its use. The solutions comprise novel mixtures of cryoprotectants.

Abstract: A method for processing and preserving an acellular collagen-based tissue matrix for transplantation is disclosed. The method includes the steps of processing biological tissues with a stabilizing solution to reduce procurement damage, treatment with a processing solution to remove cells, treatment with a cryoprotectant solution followed by freezing, drying, storage and rehydration under conditions that preclude functionally significant damage and reconstitution with viable cells.