Focus on Service:

Preservon® Ambient Storage Eliminates Temperature Verification

Dear LifeNet Health Customer,

The Joint Commission and the American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB) recently published a letter to the editor of the AORN Journal (May 2010) for the “Clarification of Tissue Storage Requirements.” This jointly authored publication between the Joint Commission and the AATB discusses the standards for tissue handling and storage at “ambient temperature or colder” temperatures. The clarification states that “Tissues requiring ambient temperatures—generally defined as the temperature of the immediate environment—for transport and storage do not need to have the temperature verified on receipt. Alternatively, the temperatures of tissues requiring room temperature storage should be verified and documented if the manufacturer has specified a temperature storage range in the package inserts.” Therefore, LifeNet Health has changed its package labeling to reflect these storage requirements for its AllowashXG® sterilized freeze-dried and Preservon®-treated products.

During this transition, LifeNet Health may still distribute products with “room temperature” package labeling. Additionally, please note that musculoskeletal allograft tissue is resistant to extreme temperatures; therefore, “ambient” storage conditions will not compromise allograft bio-implant safety. This storage designation will allow your personnel to store and use allograft products without having to implement tissue temperature monitoring systems within your facility.

LifeNet Health looks forward to continuing our relationship with you as we strive to save lives and restore health. For additional information on LifeNet Health services and products please contact Client Services at 1-888-847-7831. Additional information about LifeNet Health is also available at www.AccessLifeNetHealth.org.

Sincerely;

Michael Plew
Vice President of Quality & Regulatory Compliance

Frederic Peycelon
Senior Director of Marketing & Client Services