Cadaver embalming with the formaldehyde intraosseous injection: a technical note

Conventional embalming relies on arterial cannulation, which may be difficult when vessels are diseased, inaccessible, or damaged. Intraosseous (IO) vascular access, widely used in emergency medicine, provides a rapid and reliable route into the medullary venous system. This technical note describes a simple IO embalming protocol and assesses its feasibility and performance in human cadavers.

IO access was established in cadavers using bone-marrow needles inserted into the proximal tibia, distal femur, sternum and iliac crest. Standard formaldehyde-based embalming solution was infused using a low-pressure pump. Outcomes were assessed qualitatively by evaluating perfusion patterns, fixation quality, tissue handling, and presence of leakage.

IO access was quick and dependable, requiring no arterial dissection. The proximal tibia provided the easiest insertion, while the iliac crest allowed the broadest diffusion, particularly toward thoraco-abdominal regions. All specimens demonstrated adequate firmness, coloration, and structural preservation suitable for anatomical education.

IO injection is a practical and minimally invasive alternative to arterial cannulation for cadaver embalming. It reduces procedural complexity, limits exposure to biological fluids, and provides adequate fixation for teaching and research.