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Spinal biomechanical properties are significantly altered with a novel embalming method
Roderick M Holewijn1, Sayf S A Faraj1, Idsart Kingma2
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Research Institute MOVE, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Journal of Biomechanics
|March 6, 2017
Summary
The Fix for Life (F4L) embalming method significantly alters human spinal biomechanics, increasing stiffness and decreasing range of motion. This technique is unsuitable for in vitro biomechanical studies.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Orthopedic Research
- Tissue Preservation
Background:
- In vitro biomechanical testing of human spines commonly uses fresh frozen specimens, posing pathogen risks and limiting usability.
- Formaldehyde fixation offers safety and longevity but drastically alters tissue properties, rendering it unsuitable for biomechanical analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of the novel Fix for Life (F4L) embalming technique in preserving human spinal biomechanical properties for in vitro testing.
- To compare the effects of F4L embalming with fresh frozen and formaldehyde-fixed specimens.
Main Methods:
- Six fresh human spinal specimens were tested using a spinal motion simulator to measure range of motion (ROM) and stiffness.
- Specimens were subsequently embalmed using the F4L technique.
- Post-embalming biomechanical properties (ROM and stiffness) were re-evaluated.
Main Results:
- F4L embalming resulted in substantial increases in spinal stiffness: 230% (flexion-extension), 284% (lateral bending), and 271% (axial rotation).
- Significant decreases in ROM were observed post-F4L: 46% (flexion-extension), 56% (lateral bending), and 54% (axial rotation).
Conclusions:
- The F4L embalming technique does not preserve physiological spinal biomechanical properties and is not recommended for biomechanical studies.
- F4L may serve as a less detrimental alternative to formaldehyde fixation for applications like surgical training and education, maintaining tissue color.
