ORGAN PRESERVATION BY PLASTINATION TECHNIQUE: A NOVEL TOOL FOR TEACHING.

Abstract

Use of Formalin fixed samples as a teaching tool is less effective in creating interest among student towards anatomy as these samples are not easy to handle as well as create nausea. Plastinated gross anatomical samples are popular among students as they are easy to handle, odourless, nonhazardous and stable. Preserved specimens are long lasting so require less number of cadavers. Plastination is a process of tissue preservation by embedding tissues with synthetic materials to produce dry, durable, handy and natural looking specimens useful as a unique tool for teaching of anatomy, pathology, radiology and surgery. The 10% formalin fixed and preserved specimens of goat heart, brain and kidney were subjected to dehydration, impregnation and hardening with clearing, dehydrating and curing agents. Tissue fluids and lipids were removed with a dehydrating agent and replaced with polymer under force impregnation. Prepared samples are odourless and easy to handle.