AMNIOVET™ BIOLOGICAL SCAFFOLD
AMNIOVET™ is a cryopreserved, non-viable amniotic membrane that functions as a structural scaffold for ocular surface repair in veterinary procedures.
AMNIOVET™ is a biomaterial based on bovine amniotic membrane that is processed through a refined cryopreservation method. Cryopreservation preserves the natural structural integrity and extracellular matrix of the membrane, supporting the maintenance of a stable environment favorable for tissue recovery.
Amniotic membrane grafts have been widely used in veterinary ophthalmic procedures for their structural support.
AMNIOVET™ is a biological dressing that can be comfortably secured to the surgical site with sutures or tissue adhesives.
AMNIOVET™ PROCESSING
The amniotic membrane is collected under controlled conditions via elective cesarean section from cows with uncomplicated pregnancies, originating from livestock farms dedicated to the production of animals for human consumption. The strict sanitary and veterinary controls applied to these animals ensure that donor cows are free from infectious diseases. After delivery, the placenta is immersed in a sterile antibiotic-antigungal solution. Under sterile conditions, the amnion is separated from the placenta and the chorion und washed several times. In the laboratory, under a laminar flow hood, the amnion is rinsed, processed, and fixed to a nitrocellulose support. Each amniotic membrane/nitrocellulose unit is then dissected, fixed to a plastic holder, and packaged in a sterile, double polyethylene pouch containing a cryopreservative solution. The units are subsequently frozen at a controlled rate down to –78 °C.
Microbiological samples are collected during processing for routine quality control.
AMNIOVET™ is shipped in isothermal boxes with dry ice. Upon receipt, the product can be stored for up to 1 year in a standard household freezer at –18 °C (0º F). Once thawed, AMNIOVET™ must be used immediately and should not be refrozen.
AMNIOVET™ HANDLING
Before use, AMNIOVET™ should be thawed at room temperature for 10 minutes.
The color of the storage medium may range from light pink to orange.
AMNIOVET™ is supplied in a convenient double-bag format. Using sterile gloves or delicate forceps, carefully extract the inner sterile pouch containing the amniotic tissue. This inner pouch may be placed directly onto the sterile field.
With sterile scissors, cut the pouch just below the seal and gently remove the plastic holder with the tissue. Once AMNIOVET™ has been removed, rinse it thoroughly with sterile saline solution to eliminate any residual cryopreservative fluid.
It is very important to trim AMNIOVET™ while it remains attached to the nitrocellulose backing. Once trimmed, the amniotic membrane can be easily separated from the support using a dry surgical sponge (hemostatic) or corneal forceps. The tissue is ready for transplantation immediately after separation, with no need for rehydration. AMNIOVET™ is always supplied with its stromal side facing the nitrocellulose paper.
The processing and cryopreservation protocol applied by Vetbiologicals preserves the amniotic membrane’s characteristic tensile strength, resulting in a robust structural matrix that is easy to handle and suture.
