A Minimalistic Technique for Neural Tissue Preservation and Neuroanatomical Education: Quantitative Study of the...

Cadaveric shortages have been a challenge to anatomy education; as access remains low in many parts of the world, institutions are relying on plastinated specimens. Plastination typically requires the use of complex equipment and patented chemicals. While models solve cost and toxicity issues, in neuroanatomical education, the rigidity prevents deep-brain structure exploration and visual-spatial learning. The Elnady technique (ET) developed by Dr. Fawzy Elnady is an alternative method that solves the limitations of traditional plastination while maintaining the advantages previously developed in animal models.  The superficial temporal artery (STA), brain stem, cerebellum, right hemisphere, and latex-injected cortex were previously embalmed, drained of their original solution, dehydrated in acetone baths, and hydrometer readings were taken. Specimens were placed in a glycerol bath, immersed in cornstarch and cured. Quantitative and qualitative data of weight (grams), size (millimeters), color, texture, and odor were obtained before and after processing the samples. Overall, specimens showed a change of 6.5% in weight, 8.5% in height, 4.8% in width, and 8.9% in length (millimeters) after the preservation process. The products had pliable texture, no change in color grossly and no detectable odor. The measurement of weight (grams) ranges from 0-15.7%, height from 0-12.3%, width from 0-11.1%, and length from 1.7-5.9%. The ET is an effective method for the preservation of human cadaveric specimens that produces quality samples from embalmed specimens. Preservation can be done without patented chemicals and special storage methods are usually required for plastination. It is an ideal technique for basic and/or low-resource settings and could resolve expenses related to acquiring and maintaining cadaveric brain specimens.