Implementation of Standardized Terminology and ISBT 128 Product Codes for Ocular Tissue

International eye bank societies have approved a joint statement encouraging the use of ISBT 128 to standardize terminology, coding, and labeling of ocular tissue products. This standard is already in use in blood banks, cellular therapy facilities, and tissue banks around the world. Such global standardization promotes patient safety through improved traceability and identification of ocular tissue products. Use of a standardized, machine-readable code, such as a linear bar code, a 2-D matrix bar code, or radio frequency identification (RFID), also permits improvements in efficiency, accuracy in data capture, and interoperability among facilities using the same coding system. A standardized terminology for ocular tissue products has been developed, and its adoption can be the first step in implementing ISBT 128. Use of standardized terminology supports common understanding of products among eye banks and ophthalmic surgeons and permits better communication when ocular products are distributed internationally. Full implementation of ISBT 128 is a multistep process that begins with an understanding of how information is encoded and presented on ISBT 128 product labels and follows a typical project management process.