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A new technique for preparing cadavers using PMMA: Rat and mouse example
1Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, TR-51240 Niğde, Turkey.
Background:
Polymethyl methacrylate is a member of the acrylic polymer family with superior optical properties. It is used in dentistry, hospital incubators, lenses, and various surgical fields, especially orthopedics. In this preliminary study, we aimed to prepare cadavers using the industrial form of polymethyl methacrylate.
Methods:
The new technique consists of fixation, washing, purification, impregnation, and polymerization. For the study, two whole rat bodies, two rat front legs and two rat hind legs, one half rat body, two whole mouse bodies, and all internal organs were used. Wistar albino rats and BALB/c mice were used. After the cadaver samples were fixed and washed, they were passed through an alcohol series starting from 50%, completing the purification process. In the next step, a solution was prepared by mixing 100 ml of Thinner into 1000 ml of a mixture containing styrene, methyl methacrylate, and Co(II)2-ethyl hexanoate. The samples were immersed in the solution under negative pressure (from 10 mmHg to 400 mmHg), allowing the samples to absorb the solution thoroughly. They were then treated with methyl ethyl ketone peroxide and the polymerization step was terminated.
Results:
The cadaver samples obtained using polymer were hard, they maintained the given shape, and showed a relatively transparent quality. The production of these materials took 35 days, excluding fixation. The tissue samples were odorless in the process after polymerization. Also, there was no decay in the samples after the production stage and they could be stored under room conditions.
Conclusion:
This study determined that cadavers could be prepared using polymethyl methacrylate and methyl ethyl ketone peroxide. The polymer used here cost about $5. The cadavers can be safely exhibited in room conditions for five years without requiring special conditions like pools or cold storage. Further research should compare this technique with the plastination technique in terms of texture, color, weight, application time, and cost.
Insights
This study introduces a new method for preparing durable, transparent cadavers using polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) polymer. The PMMA-prepared specimens can be stored at room temperature for extended periods, offering a cost-effective alternative.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Anatomy
Background:
- Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is an acrylic polymer known for its optical clarity and diverse applications.
- PMMA is utilized in various medical fields, including dentistry, orthopedics, and surgical instruments.
- This preliminary research explores PMMA for cadaver preparation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a novel technique for preparing anatomical specimens using polymethyl methacrylate.
- To assess the properties and storage potential of PMMA-prepared cadavers.
Main Methods:
- A multi-step process involving fixation, washing, purification, impregnation under negative pressure, and polymerization.
- Utilized Wistar albino rats and BALB/c mice, including whole bodies and organs.
- Employed a PMMA-based solution with styrene, methyl methacrylate, and catalysts like methyl ethyl ketone peroxide.
Main Results:
- The resulting PMMA cadavers were hard, maintained their shape, and exhibited transparency.
- Specimen preparation took 35 days (excluding fixation) and resulted in odorless, non-decaying samples.
- Prepared cadavers are stable for room-temperature storage without special conditions.
Conclusions:
- Cadavers can be successfully prepared using polymethyl methacrylate and methyl ethyl ketone peroxide.
- The PMMA technique offers a cost-effective ($5 per specimen) and long-term storage solution for anatomical specimens.
- Further studies are recommended to compare PMMA preparation with traditional plastination.
