Tissue Donation

Like organ and corneal transplants, our ability to provide tissue for transplantation depends on the generosity of donor families. From athletes who tear ligaments in their knees (ACL injuries) to burn victims, donated tissue helps to improve the quality of life for over 500,000 individuals each year.

As with all transplants, the donor’s medical condition at the time of death determines who can and who can’t be a tissue donor. Here is a list of the various types of tissue that can be transplanted:

Bone

To restore mobility and to prevent amputations

Heart valves

Most commonly used to improve heart function, most urgently needed for children

Skin

Promotes healing for burn victims

Tendons

Replaces damaged ligaments to restore joint function and mobility for example in ACL repairs

Veins

Restores blood flow, used frequently in bypass surgeries