VACUUM ASSISTED PLASTINATION USING MELAMYNE

Abstract

Introduction: This study is an attempt to perform plastination using indigenous method which is cheap, executable and does not require extremes of cold temperature and technical instruments. The effectiveness of the procedure was judged by calculating shrinkage post plastination, external appearance, polymer cost and consumption, extra equipment cost, and student’s feedback post teaching with plastinates.

Methodology: The present study was conducted from June 2016 to December 2016 in Department of anatomy, GMC Kota Rajasthan. The cadaveric specimens procured were fixed in 10% formalin. The measurements were taken by scale and digital vernier caliper. The steps of plastination were same as the original technique i.e. Fixation, Dehydration, Degreasing, Forced Impregnation in vacuum and Curing (hardening). Simple technique using indeginous instruments were used to apply the vacuum fitted with the timer for 20 minutes Final measurements were taken of all the specimens and then ANOVA between the groups in medcalc software was used to compare the shrinkage.

Results: Dry, odourless, portable and aesthetically pleasing plastinates were obtained. The dimensions were much reduced after each step except after vacuum assisted impregnation there was slight increase in the dimensions though it did not reach the initial value.

Conclusion: Feedback from students regarding plastinates revealed that they were easy to handle but less flexible and difficulty in visualizing deeper structures but good for cross-sectional anatomy as the tissue got fixed and displacement of structures was minimal. These plastinates are excellent adjunct for teaching as they have nullified exposure to the toxic fumes of formalin.