How are donated tissues used?
Heart valves help repair cardiac defects and are used to replace diseased or deformed valves. Donated valves may be life-saving for these recipients. Long bones of the leg and the crest of the hip become several smaller grafts used for spinal fusions, dental surgeries, and to repair damaged or diseased bone anywhere in the body. Bone grafts prevent amputations, as well as accelerate and promote healing. Skin from the back and the legs goes directly to burn victims who need immediate grafts to stimulate new skin growth and to provide a barrier against infection and loss of body fluids. Donated skin may save the lives of critically burned patients. Saphenous veins can be used in cardiac bypass surgeries and in preventing amputations in individuals with chronic circulation problems by restoring blood flow to a leg. Tendons and ligaments can be used to replace damaged tendons and ligaments in patients who have sustained injuries, restoring mobility and independence. Fascia is the tough mem
