A method of creating an implantation material from biological and tissue engineered
biosynthetic and biological tissue of autogenic, allogenic and xenogenic origin
suitable for implantation into humans or animals as surgical and vascular prostheses.
The resultant material inhibits in vivo calcification and provides a non-porous
biomatrix which is impervious to angiogenesis and tissue ingrowth and suitable
for the adhesion and retention of transplanted living cells such as endothelial
cells, without the need for additional extracellular matrix protein coating. The
method, which incorporates a gradual increase in glutaraldehyde concentration from
0% to no more than 5% weight/volume in a pH which is gradually changed from acid
to alkaline at room temperature, maintains the micro-architecture and the cellular
lining of the material. Additionally flexibility, compliance and haemo-compatibility
along with strength and durability can be varied according to the end use. The
glutaraldehyde penetrates the material gradually and completely, cross linking
the collagenous components of the tissue.