The implications of a new Code of Practice on the storage of human skin for a regional plastic surgery unit

Abstract

The United Kingdom Code of Practice for Tissue Banking and its forthcoming European Union directive set out standards for the quality and safety of human tissues and require all tissue banks in the public sector to apply for accreditation under the code. A unified framework for the procurement, testing, processing, storage and distribution of human tissues and cells, similar to that of a blood bank, will require vigorous safety procedures and these documents are producing a paradigm shift in the way tissues are stored and processed within the UK [excerpt].