Patents by Inventor Kelvin G. M. Brockbank

Kelvin G. M. Brockbank has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Cryoprotective agent and its use in cryopreservation of cellular matter
    Patent number: 5071741
    Abstract: A novel class of nonpermeating cryoprotectants which, when mixed with certain known penetrating cryoprotectants, provide a useful medium for protection of living cells during a cryopreservation process. Algae-derived polysaccharides such as agarose and alginate are useful as nonpermeating cryoprotectants as they form a gel matrix when cooled, protect against ice crystal formation, and yield improved viability of cells when thawed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1991
    Assignee: Cryolife, Inc.
    Inventor: Kelvin G. M. Brockbank
  • Method for cryopreserving heart valves
    Patent number: 4890457
    Abstract: A method of freezing, storing and thawing collagen-rich tissue, such as heart valves. The method includes a freezing profile for freezing the tissue down to the temperature of liquid nitrogen with minimal tissue damage due to ice crystal formation. Heart valves cryopreserved according to the present process exhibit a high cell viability when thawed and are suitable for implanting in human patients.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1990
    Assignee: CryoLife, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert T. McNally, Albert Heacox, Kelvin G. M. Brockbank, Harvey L. Bank