The Centre for Tissue Engineering of the Tshwane University of Technology is a human tissue bank responsible for the procurement, processing, and distribution of human tissue for transplantation. 

Established in 2002, CTE is a leading, experienced human tissue bank, and the only true multi-disciplinary tissue bank in South Africa, 

* ISO-accredited
* Employs 30 professionals
* Operating in 8 provinces

Operations include public awareness, donor screening, tissue retrieval and processing, tissue preservation and supply.

Which tissues are transplanted in South Africa?
Cornea, Bone, Tendons, Heart valves, Skin, Femoral Heads

Which organs are transplanted in South Africa?
Heart, Lungs, Liver, Kidney, Pancreas 

Tissue Donation is defined as tissue retrieval for the purpose of transplantation. This is a medical process that has the potential to save and transform the lives of many South Africans awaiting a transplant. Tissue donation involves removing tissue from a deceased person (donor) to graft or transplant into a patient (recipient) in need. A single donor’s tissue can be used to treat 65 or more patients.

The principle of organ vs. tissue donation is the same. A person such as you and I, decide that after his or her own death, another person should benefit by receiving healthy organs and tissue.

Tissue donation takes place after circulatory death (the donor is either already at the funeral home or forensic services). and can take place up to 5 days after death. This gives more people an opportunity to donate tissue.

Currently, there is a huge demand for and shortage of all types of human tissue in South Africa, resulting in the sourcing of imported tissue to treat patients. Unfortunately, this has negative cost implications for patient and support structures, leaving South African state patients very few treatment opportunities.

For more information or to register as an organ & tissue donor, please visit www.tissuedonation.org.za.

Centre for Tissue Engineering

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