Comparative study of anatomical specimens using plastination by araldite HY103, polypropylene resin, 6170H19 Orthocryl and silicone - A qualitative study.
BACKGROUND
Most of the organs and tissues are preserved in formalin with its own set of disadvantages. Plastination is a unique method of permanently preserving tissue in a life like state. Plastination developed by western authorities is a labour and equipment intensive affair. Most common polymer used is S10, however this study uses easily available alternative polymers for plastination.


METHODS
Various polymers like Epoxy resins, Polypropylene resins, Orthocryl and silicone were used in plastinating the anatomical specimens. Specific methods were used for solid, hollow organs and brain specimens. The specimens were made to undergo stages of fixation, dehydration, impregnation and curing. The results were studied and interpreted under various parameters.


RESULTS
The results were interpreted under various parameters like shrinkage, retention of colour, odour, pliability and retention of gross anatomy. The study concluded that Orthocryl and Epoxy resins retained maximum colour with minimal shrinkage while maximum discolouration was with polypropylene plastinates. Brain sections were best preserved in Orthocryl.


CONCLUSIONS
The study concluded that indigenous methods and materials can produce quality plastinates which can be an important adjunct to traditional methods of teaching however more studies need to be done for refinement.
Associate Professor, Dept of Anatomy, Armed Forces Medical College, Pune 411040, India.
Subhendu
S
Pandit
Professor and Head, Dept of Anatomy, Armed Forces Medical College, Pune 411040, India.
Sushil
S
Kumar
Professor and Head, Dept of Anatomy, Army College of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
B K
BK
Mishra
Araldite; Orthocryl; Plastination; Polypropylene resin