AlloSource, one of the nation's largest non-profit providers of skin, bone and soft tissue allografts for use in surgical procedures and the world's largest processor of live cellular bone growth substitutes, has been awarded its first patent for a propriety tissue cleaning and disinfecting process called RICA. AlloSource was awarded US patent number 7,658,888 on February 9, 2010. The patent title is Apparatus for treating allograft products.
RICA is an innovative cleaning and disinfecting system used in the processing of tissue that is more effective at reducing bacteria than traditional methods of cleaning. RICA works by exposing allografts to ultrasonics and cleaning solutions inside a fully automated, closed rotating canister. In addition to bacteria, RICA removes the marrow and lipids that can be responsible for allograft discoloration.
"Being awarded our first patent is a significant milestone in the growth of our organization and our commitment to constant improvements to allograft safety and quality," said Thomas Cycyota, AlloSource President and CEO. "AlloSource is an innovative company and our exceptional research and development team is the engine of new products and process developments that will allow us to more quickly and safely deliver life-saving and life-enhancing allograft products to our local communities."
RICA was created over a four year period under the direction of Simon Bogdansky, VP of Research and Development, with the support of Engineering and Operations.
By focusing on quality, safety, service and a commitment to its mission, AlloSource has grown into one of the nation's largest non-profit bone, soft tissue and allograft skin networks in the country. The Company's safety and tissue processing standards meet and exceed guidelines set forth by the FDA and the American Association of Tissue Banks.
Rising antibiotic resistance prompts shift to ecological research strategies in infection control