Plastination of dissected brain specimens and Mulligan-stained sections of the human brain

The difficulties in obtaining human brain material for teaching neuroanatomy have increased the demand for more durable brain specimens. In this paper, we describe results obtained by preparing large, plastinated, dissected human brain specimens and Mulligan-stained sections of the human brain. The brains were fixed in formalin, washed and dissected in order to visualize the fibre tracts and larger nuclei in the central nervous system. This was followed by dehydration at -20 degrees C in acetone. The specimens were then impregnated with silicone, Biodur S10, in vacuo and hardened in Biodur S6 vapour. The grey and white substance in the central nervous system as well as the larger fibre tracts and nuclei were clearly visible in the dissected, plastinated specimens. Coronal and sagittal sections of the human brain were stained according to Tompsett's modification of the Mulligan method. The sections were then dehydrated in cold acetone followed by forced impregnation with Biodur S10 and hardening. The plastinated sections stained distinctly and strongly and the nuclei in the forebrain, cerebellum and brain stem could be identified easily. The sections did not fade when exposed to light and could be easily handled in the classroom without damage. Therefore, the distinct visualization of neuroanatomical structures, the improved durability of the specimens, as well as the lack of odour make plastinated specimens and stained sections of the central nervous system a valuable tool for teaching neuroanatomy that compliments the use of wet preparations.