Abstract: A method for preparing collagenous biological tissues for use as implantable bioprosthetic material, and articles prepared thereby. The method generally comprises the steps of a) contacting the tissue with an aldehyde fixative to effect cross-linking of the connective tissue protein(s) and subsequently b) contacting the tissue with a polyglycidyl ether. The treatment of the crosslinked tissue with the polyglycidyl ether serves to mitigate the tissue's propensity to undergo calcification following implantation in the body.

Abstract: Methods for binding heparin to biological or synthetic materials which are to be implanted within a mammalian body. In instances where connective tissue proteins or other components of the material having adequate carboxyl groups present thereon, the method comprises a) contacting the material with a carboxyl-activating agent, b) contacting the material with a polyamine compound to form amide-bound polyarnine side chains at the sites of the previously activated carboxyl groups, and c) contacting the material with heparin such that heparin will become bound to the amino groups on the polyamine side chains.