A Novel Low-Cost Technique for Three-Dimensional Cardiopulmonary Preservation Using Internal Poly(Vinyl Acetate)...

Anatomical preservation is essential for teaching and research; however, conventional formaldehyde-based techniques present limitations due to toxicity, volatility and environmental impact. Plastination provides excellent morphological quality, but its high cost, reliance on flammable solvents and requirement for specialized equipment limit its accessibility. This study proposes a low-cost alternative technique for the preservation of hearts and lungs using internal application of poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc) followed by air drying. Organs from two canines, one ovine and one lagomorph were injected with PVAc, fixed in 3.7% formaldehyde for 72 h, and subsequently dehydrated at room temperature for approximately 30 days. The resulting specimens maintained their three-dimensional conformation, exhibited reduced weight, absence of odour and good resistance to handling, and allowed subsequent painting for didactic purposes. Despite some tissue darkening, overall morphological integrity was preserved, producing specimens suitable for anatomical demonstration. This technique represents a simple, reproducible and cost-effective alternative to traditional plastination, significantly reducing formaldehyde exposure and eliminating the need for flammable solvents or complex laboratory infrastructure.