[Experiences with improved preservation solutions for historic and modern anatomic preparations]

Basing on experiences made at the Anatomical Museum Basel often arising difficulties of conservation of ancient anatomical preparations are described. Criteria are named which allow the recognition of specific problems of various preparations, and the adequate solutions for fixation and conservation are given. These solutions, the compositions of which are described in detail, are suited for historical as well as for modern wet preparations. Thus, it is possible to save and stabilize also delicate preparations of former times, even those with faint hues can be renovated which afterwards show an increase of contrast and an improved preservation of colours. Furthermore, techniques are indicated for mounting and preservation of preparations in special containers made of acrylic glass. By means of these methods, the preservation of preparations as well as the cleaning and change of solutions are markedly improved.