Preservation of the dissected and surgical anatomic detail in the human temporal bone

Preservation and usefulness of human gross temporal bones that have been dissected or drilled have always been a problem. This article describes application of the technique of plastination developed by von Hagens to the temporal bone. The use of this technique permits development of a collection of both anatomically dissected and surgically drilled temporal bones which can be studied by the otolaryngologist at any level. The procedure involves impregnation of the specimen with uncured polymers--a silicone rubber of medium viscosity followed by curing in a vapor bath. The advantages of this technique are that the plastinated temporal bone can be studied and handled without any unpleasant odor and there is no need for liquid preservation. The potential problem of the specimen drying out and becoming useless is thus avoided.