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Moghadami S, Bahadoran H, Eftekhari Moghadam A, Asadi M H. A New Dissection Method of Lower Limbs for Whole Body Plastination. ASJ 2023; 20 (2) :55-62
URL: http://anatomyjournal.ir/article-1-633-en.html

Introduction: Plastination is a common method for long-term preservation of biological tissues while maintaining their anatomical features. This method, widely used in medical education, provides durable and odorless specimens that closely resemble living tissues. However, the resulting specimen is rigid and non-flexible with a plastic-like consistency. This study aimed to propose a novel approach for the dissection of lower limbs for whole-body plastination that optimizes tissue preservation and enhances the educational value of the specimens.
Methods: A modified dissection method of the lower limbs utilizing a distal-to-proximal approach was performed for whole-body plastination. A key feature of this method is that the dissection of the left and right limbs was done differently. The left limb was dissected, preserving its superficial muscles for standard anatomical study. The right limb had its superficial muscles removed, exposing deep anatomical structures such as vessels, nerves, and deep muscles. This approach allows for a comparative study of both surface and deep layers in a single specimen.
Results: By beginning the dissection at the distal extremities, we were able to address the challenge of rapid desiccation in these areas. By preserving the superficial muscles on one limb and removing them on the contralateral limb, medical students can gain a deeper understanding of both surface and deep anatomy and directly compare the superficial and deep structures of the lower limbs on a single cadaver. The plastinated specimens were durable and odorless, making them ideal for long-term use in teaching and research.
Conclusion: This approach offers an effective way to showcase the lower limbs’ superficial and deep structures in a single, plastinated specimen. This approach not only helps with the preservation of anatomical details but also offers a valuable comparative learning tool for medical students.