LONG TERM PRESERVATION OF CADAVERS: SUBSTITUTION OF FORMALIN WITH PHENOXYETHANOL: NEED OF THE HOUR

Abstract

Introduction: Formaldehyde is not just a human carcinogen but the cause of many other unwanted hazards; respiratory distress, red eyes, etc. Occupational health authorities throughout the world are therefore likely to increase the strictness of regulations for the use of formaldehyde within anatomical disciplines. Aim: This study evaluates the effectiveness of Phenoxetol (Phenoxyethanol) as suitable alternative to formaldehyde for long term preservation of cadavers. Results: The soft consistency, colour and flexibility, of cadavers preserved in Phenoxetol, was found to be suitable for dissection & demonstration purposes. Conclusion:Phenoxetol proves to be a viable replacement of formaldehyde.Its efficacy as a preservative and fixative is supposed to be better than formalin. In addition to avoiding the well-known hazardous effects of formaldehyde, the use of Phenoxetol also prevents the pungent and irritating smell associated with formalin and other local and systemic manifestations of its toxicity.