Embalmed Bodies Research Articles

Oblique or short incisions reduce the risk of saphenous nerve damage during hamstrings harvesting. A model for mapping nerve pathways at the harvest site.

INTRODUCTIONHamstring autografts are frequently used for ligament reconstruction surgery. Twelve to 84% of patients describe hypo or dysaesthesia secondary to injury of the saphenous nerve or one of its branches after hamstring harvesting. Type of incision (orientation and length) is subject of much debate to limit the risk of nerve damage. A cadaveric study was performed to determine which type of incision limits the risk of injury to the saphenous nerve or one of its branches, based on an anatomic model for mapping nerve pathways at the harvest site. METHODSAn anatomical study was performed on 20 knees from 12 embalmed bodies. Distance between saphenous nerve branches and 4 points of interest along the tibial crest was measured. Based on these measurements, a digital model of the saphenous nerve and its branches was created. A model of three common types of incision (vertical, horizontal and oblique) was overlaid. Each incision was modelled for three lengths (2, 3 and 4cm). Percentage of collision between nerve course model and incision model was then calculated to determine the risk of nerve damage for each type of incision. Based on the nerve course model, a “low collision risk” safe zone was identified. RESULTSNerve damage risk after an oblique incision was significantly lower than for a horizontal or vertical incision, for incision lengths of 3 and 4cm (p<0.05). For a specific incision orientation, the length of the incision did not affect the risk of nerve damage. A trapezoidal space close to the tibial crest and distal to the anterior tibial tuberosity appears to reduce risk of nerve damage. CONCLUSIONThis cadaveric study suggests that during hamstring harvesting, incisions shorter than 2cm reduce the risk of saphenous nerve’s branches injuries. For incisions longer than 2cm, using an oblique incision may reduce the risk compared to vertical or horizontal incisions. LEVEL OF EVIDENCELevel of evidence not applicable: Laboratory experiments

The anatomical variations of the cubital tunnel in a South African body donor sample

PurposeThe ulnar nerve (UN) courses through the cubital tunnel, which is a potential site of entrapment. Anatomical variations of the cubital tunnel may contribute towards cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS), however, these are not well described. The aim was to compare the range of variations and dimensions of the cubital tunnel and the UN between sexes and sides of the body.MethodsSixty elbows from 30 embalmed bodies (17 males and 13 females) were dissected. The prevalence of the cubital tunnel retinaculum (CuTR) or anconeus epitrochlearis (AE) forming the roof of the tunnel was determined. The length, width, thickness, and diameter of the cubital tunnel and its roof were measured. The diameter of the UN was measured.ResultsThe AE was present in 5%, whereas the CuTR was present in the remaining 95% of elbows. The tunnel was 32.1 ± 4.8 mm long, 23.4 ± 14.2 mm wide, 0.18 ± (0.22–0.14) mm thick, and the median diameter was 7.9 ± (9.0–7.1) mm, while the median diameter of the UN was 1.6 ± (1.8–1.3) mm. The AE was thicker than the CuTR (p < 0.001) and the UN was larger in elbows with the AE present (p = 0.002). The tunnel was longer in males (p < 0.001) and wider on the right (p = 0.014).ConclusionThe roof of the cubital tunnel was more frequently composed of the CuTR. The cubital tunnel varied in size between sexes and sides. Future research should investigate the effect of the variations in patients with CuTS.

Interosseous tendon inflammation in the hands of patients with clinically suspect arthralgia: analysis of MRI data from a prospective cohort study.

Inflammation around the tendons of interosseous muscles of the hand (interosseous tendon inflammation) was recently observed with MRI for the first time in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and in at-risk individuals with detectable anti-citrullinated protein antibodies, generating the hypothesis that interosseous tendon inflammation precedes clinical arthritis. To better understand the role of interosseous tendon inflammation during the development of rheumatoid arthritis, we studied the frequency of interosseous tendon inflammation in healthy individuals and in those with arthralgia that was suspected of progressing to rheumatoid arthritis (ie, clinically suspect arthralgia) and the association of interosseous tendon inflammation with other symptoms of inflamed joint tissues and with clinical arthritis development. Adult (age ≥18 years) patients who presented with clinically suspect arthralgia and symptom-free (control) individuals underwent contrast-enhanced hand MRI. MRIs were evaluated for interosseous tendon inflammation on the radial and ulnar sides of the second to fifth metacarpophalangeal joints, and for synovitis, tenosynovitis, and osteitis using the rheumatoid arthritis MRI scoring system. Patients with clinically suspect arthralgia were followed up for clinical arthritis development. The presence of local tenosynovium was examined using immunohistochemistry for anti-CD55 and anti-CD68 on tissue from the hands of three embalmed bodies donated for scientific research. The primary outcome for the cross-sectional part of the study was the presence of interosseous tendon inflammation on MRI. The primary outcome for the longitudinal part of the study was development of clinical arthritis. Between April 3, 2012, and May 20, 2020, 667 patients with clinically suspect arthralgia (mean age 44 years [SD 13], 504 [76%] were women and 163 [24%] were men) underwent contrast-enhanced hand MRI. Between Nov 1, 2013, and Nov 30, 2014, 193 symptom-free controls were recruited (mean age 50 years [SD 16], 136 [70%] were women and 57 [30%] were men). Two (1%) of 193 symptom-free controls had interosseous tendon inflammation. Immunohistochemistry of cadaveric hand tissues showed no tenosynovium surrounding interosseous tendons. At inclusion, 67 (10%) of 667 patients with clinically suspect arthralgia had interosseous tendon inflammation (p<0·0001 vs symptom-free controls). Interosseous tendon inflammation occurred more frequently if synovitis (odds ratio [OR] 2·2 [95% CI 1·2-4·2]), or tenosynovitis (OR 9·7 [5·5-17·0]), was present at metacarpophalangeal joints. A three-dimensional MRI reconstruction suggested confluency of interosseous tendon inflammation with metacarpophalangeal-flexor-tenosynovitis. 91 (16%) of 558 patients with clinically suspect arthralgia developed clinical arthritis during follow-up (median total follow-up 25·3 months [95% CI 25·1-25·5]). Patients with clinically suspect arthralgia with interosseous tendon inflammation had a higher risk of developing clinical arthritis (hazard ratio [HR] 4·5 [2·8-7·2]), which was attenuated but still significant after adjusting for concomitant synovitis, tenosynovitis, or osteitis (HR 1·7 [1·02-2·8]). Interosseous tendon inflammation is almost absent in symptom-free individuals but occurs in people with clinically suspect arthralgia, in whom it correlates with symptoms and is associated with the development of clinical arthritis. The absence of local tenosynovium suggests that interosseous tendon inflammation arises from expanding local subclinical inflammation in the pre-arthritis phase of rheumatoid arthritis. European Research Council and the Dutch Arthritis Society.

Pre-clinical evaluation of the new veress needle+ mechanism on thiel-embalmed bodies: a controlled crossover study - Experimental research.

Eighteen participants (novices, intermediates, and experts) performed in total of 248 insertions in a systematic way on Thiel-embalmed bodies with wide and small bore versions of the conventional VN (VNc) and the VN+. Insertion depth was measured by recording the graduations on the needle under direct laparoscopic vision. Participants graded the bodies and the procedures as lifelike. Overall, a significant reduction (P<0.001) in average insertion depth was found for the VN+ compared to the VNc of 26.0 SD16 mm versus 46.2 SD15mm. The insertion depth difference in the novice group was higher compared to the intermediates and experts (P<0.001). The average insertion depth for both needle types was less (P<0.001) for female participants compared to male. This study indicated that the VN+ significantly reduced the insertion depth in all tested conditions. Whether the difference between female and male performance can be linked to differences in muscle control or arm mass should be further investigated. Useful technical information was gathered from this study to further improve the VN+.

Bacterial species-specific antimicrobial efficacies of three different body embalming solutions for anatomical studies.

While body decompensation is mainly facilitated by bacteria, investigating the antimicrobial properties of body preservation methods is still a neglected research area. We performed microbiological sampling for potentially pathogenic bacteria species of brain, lung, liver, colon, and subcutis samples obtained from bodies perfused with embalming solutions of variable composition with emphasis on variable formaldehyde concentrations. We, thereby, identified spore-forming aerobic and anaerobic bacteria mainly in the samples obtained from the colon of ethanol- and lower-concentrated formaldehyde formulation embalmed bodies. Moreover, we could identify Enterococcus species in bodies preserved with the latter method. Tissue samples of the subcutis remained sterile. Long-term incubation of special mycobacteria growth indicator tubes revealed no growth of mycobacteria in all 60 samples analyzed. Overall, we show survival of bacterial genera known to be especially environmentally resistant but also include potentially pathogenic members. Knowledge of bactericidal capacities of embalming solutions are therefore critical to assess risk and apply appropriate disinfection routines while working with human bodies. Moreover, new formulations to reduce potentially toxic substances for embalming needs to be evaluated regarding their bactericidal capacities.

Simulation of Reconstructive Microsurgery in Soft Embalmed Cadavers: A Teaching Module for Plastic Surgery Residents.

Background Cadaveric dissection courses-comprising flap harvesting techniques, vessel dissections, flap transfers to the defect, and microvascular anastomosis-would help residents gain confidence and master these difficult major reconstructive microsurgery procedures. Formalin embalmed bodies lack natural softness and many other features of a live body. Many soft embalming techniques have evolved to mimic live tissue and Theil technique is the most popular one among them. We explored alternate soft embalming options and started using Genelyn. Materials and Methods Over a span of 2 years (2019-2021), we have conducted three flap dissection workshops using soft-embalmed cadavers. Six soft-embalmed and two formalin-embalmed cadavers were used. Total number of participants was 80. Results Feedback of experience from the third course participants in the form of grades (1-5) for different criteria was obtained and evaluated. Confidence in the dissection of the various flaps and microsurgery is noticeable in all the participants. Conclusion Based on our experience, we propose that flap dissection and microsurgery training on soft-embalmed cadavers be included as a teaching module in the plastic surgery postgraduate curriculum.

Embalming of Early Decomposing Strangled Homicides in Anambra State, Nigeria: A Validation Study

Formalin is one of the commonest embalming fluid used in modern embalming. Methanol can also be mixed with formalin in order to prevent the precipitation of formaldehyde to paraformaldehyde. Methanol is also a good preservative. Strangled bodies remain one of common homicides received at funeral homes in Anambra state, Nigeria. Therefore, the objectives of this study are to observe the early decomposition activities in Anambra state; use an embalming mixture containing formalin, methanol and water to arrest it; and document the techniques used to achieve it. Therefore, four infant pigs were used for this study. They were sacrificed and allowed to reach the early stage of decomposition before embalming. The results showed that outcome of embalming is influenced by the embalming mixture used, duration of the embalming, and the room temperature of the morgue were the embalmed bodies were stored after embalming. The results also showed that atmospheric temperature and humidity does not influence the outcome of embalming. In conclusion, the methodology for arresting early decomposition of strangled homicides is by arterially injecting an embalming mixture containing formalin, methanol, water and dye; and also supplementing this technique with hypodermic embalming technique.

Anatomical features of the iliocapsularis muscle: a dissection study.

PurposeIliocapsularis (IC) overlies the anteromedial hip capsule and is an important landmark in anterior approaches to hip arthroplasty. Previously believed to be part of iliacus, few publications describe the prevalence, attachments, fibre direction, blood supply, innervation, and size of IC. This study was aimed to determine these anatomical features using embalmed bodies and whether they vary between sides, sex, and age.MethodsThirty-eight formalin-fixed adult bodies were dissected and the prevalence, presence of a connective tissue raphe, attachments, fibre direction, blood supply, and innervation, were documented. Length and width were measured, and significant differences were investigated with t tests.ResultsIliocapsularis was present in all bodies examined, originating from the inferior border of the anterior inferior iliac spine, and inserting 20 mm distal to the lesser trochanter in 54 muscles (71%). Iliocapsularis was supplied by a thin branch from the femoral nerve and by branches of the lateral circumflex femoral and deep femoral arteries and veins. Muscle fibre direction was from superolateral to inferomedial. Mean length was 116.8 ± 11.2 mm and width was 12.8 ± 3.1 mm, with no significant differences between sides, sex, and age.ConclusionThis was the first study to document the venous drainage and compare the dimensions with sides, sex, and age, using adult bodies. However, the true function of IC is still unknown. Iliocapsularis is a constant muscle, distinct from iliacus, which is relevant to orthopaedic surgeons and physical rehabilitation specialists, particularly for postoperative patient care.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00276-022-02905-y.

Late Stage Decomposition of Embalmed Cadavers

Decomposition is a natural process that begins approximately four minutes after death and continues until the body is degraded to simpler biochemical components which are gradually recycled back to the environment. This process is dependent on extrinsic and intrinsic factors. Embalming is a chemical preservation technique that aims to preserve the external appearance of the body in good condition for an indeterminate period. In Spain, there is a lack of experimental studies carried out to analyse the variables that affect decomposition in embalmed bodies, therefore, in accordance with the conclusions reached by previous authors, it is hypothesised that embalmed bodies show quantifiable characteristics during the late stage decomposition which distinguish them from control, unembalmed, cadavers. An anthropological and statistical analysis was performed on 14 individuals from Cementerio Sur de Madrid exhumed after ten years according to the Mortuary Health Law of the Autonomous Region of Madrid. The preliminary results obtained showed that there is a qualitative and statistically significant relationship between the variables evaluated, being the presence or absence of soft tissue the most notable difference. The mortuary or thanatopraxy treatments performed before the burial and the microenvironmental conditions of the burial positively influence the soft tissue preservation on embalmed bodies. These results contribute to the understanding about the decomposition rate of an embalmed cadavers in cemeteries, and the related extrinsic variables.

Indigenous Remains, Colonialism and Ethical Dilemmas

This paper examines how Eurocentric and colonial assumptions that until recently guided the handling of human remains in archaeology and museography are now regarded as problematic, focusing on the situation on the Canary Islands, which has recently passed new legislation (Canary Islands Law 11/2019) on cultural heritage that includes an amendment on human remains. Museums in the Canary Islands continue to display Indigenous bones and embalmed bodies in glass cases, and bone material is even used in contemporary art installations. The paper examines the new law in relation to the ICOM Code of Ethics for Museums as well as other ethical and legal frameworks that address the issue of human remains. We also draw attention to the role of politics, social scientists and society in this debate.

English

BACKGROUND The external iliac artery passes behind the inguinal ligament into the front of the thigh as the femoral artery (FA). The FA gives off many branches both superficial and deep. The profunda femoris artery (PFA) is one of the deep branches given off in the femoral triangle in front of the thigh. The PFA gives off the medial circumflex femoral artery (MCFA) and the lateral circumflex femoral arteries (LCFA) and continues downwards giving off the first, second and third perforating arteries. The PFA terminates as the fourth perforating artery. Many variations in the circumflex branches of the PFA have been found by various authors. These variations are of great significance during procedures done in front part of the thigh. METHODS This is a descriptive cadaveric study. We dissected the thighs of 57 embalmed bodies. We looked for the medial (MCFA) and lateral (LCFA) circumflex arteries which are branches of PFA. Each artery was followed till its termination. The distance of their origin from the point of the origin of PFA from the FA was measured and noted. The distance between pubic symphysis and anterior superior iliac spine was measured using black silk and measuring scale. The midpoint was marked using skin marking pen and an incision extending from anterior superior iliac spine to pubic symphysis was made. Another incision was made from the above midpoint to the midpoint of a horizontal incision at the level of knee joint. Femoral sheath was identified and incised. Femoral artery, profunda femoris artery and its circumflex branches were identified. The modes of origin of MCFA and LCFA were noted. The distance of origin of these from the origin of PFA were measured. Variations in the branching pattern of MCFA and LCFA were looked for and noted down. RESULTS We found that in 83 % of the total cases MCFA took origin from PFA and its origin was from the FA in 13 %. In 84 % of total cases LCFA arose from PFA on the right side and 70 % on the left side. A common stump of origin was noted in 3 cases. CONCLUSIONS Medial and lateral circumflex branches of PFA exhibit wide variations. KEY WORDS Medial Circumflex Femoral Artery, Lateral Circumflex Femoral Artery, Variations in Origin and Branching

A cadaveric study on the variations of the profunda femoris artery in South India

Background: The knowledge of the variations in the branching patterns of the arteries in the femoral triangle is important to avoid iatrogenic injury to the vessels during clinical procedures.&#x0D; Aims and Objectives: The study was designed to explore the varying positions of the origin of the profunda femoris artery from the femoral artery.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: We have dissected the thighs of 60 embalmed bodies. The midpoint between the anterior superior iliac spine and the pubic symphysis was marked (midinguinal point). The distance of the point of origin of profunda femoris artery (PFA) from the femoral artery (FA) to the midinguinal point (MIP) was measured by black silk thread and scale. The relation of PFA to FA at its origin was noted.&#x0D; Results: In the majority of the cases, the PFA was found to arise posterolaterally from the FA. In 63.3% of the cases, PFA was found to arise posterolaterally from the FA, while in 21.5% of cases it took origin laterally from it. In majority of the cases, the PFA arose at a distance of 3-6 cms from midinguinal point while a considerable number originated more distally.&#x0D; Conclusion: PFA exhibits significant variations. Posterolateral origin from FA was the most common mode of origin.

Zygomaticus major muscle bony attachment site: a Thiel-embalmed cadaver study

Thezygomaticus major is a principal muscle of facial expression which is engaged when smiling. The zygomaticus major origin of the zygomatic bone is often discussed relevant to its importance in the field of plastic surgery. In addition, the zygomaticus major attachment site is also significant for forensic craniofacial reconstruction, separating the cheek into frontal and lateral surfaces. However, there are discrepancies amongst published articles regarding the precise origin of the zygomaticus major muscle. The aim of this study is to investigate more distinctive and palpable landmarks as the bony attachment of the zygomaticus major. This project is the first zygomaticus major dissection study utilising Thiel embalmed cadavers. Fifty-two facial dissections were investigated in 26 Thiel embalmed bodies, bequeathed to the Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification at The University of Dundee between 2013 and 2015. This study found that the origin of zygomaticus major muscle was located at the superior margin of the temporal process on the lateral surface of zygomatic bone. Moreover, the zygomaticus major muscle overlapped the anterosuperior border of the masseter muscle. One out of 52 zygomaticus major muscles presented bifurcation. The origin site of zygomaticus major is considered important to increase resemblance in forensic craniofacial reconstruction. Furthermore, since zygomaticus major is a salient muscle involved in facial expression, the potential effects for cosmetic/surgical procedures are also relevant to the medical field and successful surgical outcomes. The current study provided easily palpable landmarks of zygomaticus major origin site which is beneficial for both surgeons and forensic craniofacial reconstruction practitioners.

COVID-19 and anatomy: Stimulus and initial response.

The outbreak of COVID-19, resulting from widespread transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, represents one of the foremost current challenges to societies across the globe, with few areas of life remaining untouched. Here, we detail the immediate impact that COVID-19 has had on the teaching and practice of anatomy, providing specific examples of the varied responses from several UK, Irish and German universities and medical schools. Alongside significant issues for, and suspension of, body donation programmes, the widespread closure of university campuses has led to challenges in delivering anatomy education via online methods, a particular problem for a practical, experience-based subject such as anatomy. We discuss the short-term consequences of COVID-19 for body donation programmes and anatomical education, and highlight issues and challenges that will need to be addressed in the medium to long term in order to restore anatomy education and practice throughout the world.

Qualitative and quantitative comparison of Thiel and phenol-based soft-embalmed cadavers for surgery training.

Surgical skills training has traditionally been limited to formalinembalming that does not provide a realistic model. The aim of this study was to qualitatively and quantitatively compare Thiel and phenol-based soft-embalming techniques: qualitatively in a surgical training setup, and quantitatively by comparing the mechanical and histomorphometric properties of skin specimens embalmed using each method. Thirty-four participants were involved in surgical workshops comparing Thiel and phenol-based embalmed bodies. Participants were asked to evaluate the utility of the different models for surgical skills training. In parallel, tensile elasticity evaluation was performed on skin flaps from six fresh-frozen cadavers. Flaps were divided into three groups for each specimen: fresh-frozen, Thiel, and phenol-based embalmed and compared together at 1month or 1year after embalming. A histological investigation of the skin structural properties was performed for each embalming type using haematoxylin and eosin and Masson's trichrome. All participants rated the phenol-based specimens consistently better or equivalent to Thiel for the evaluated parameters. Quantitatively, there were statistically significant differences for the tensile elasticity between the embalming techniques (p<.05). There were no significant differences for the tensile elasticity between phenol-based embalmed skin and fresh state (p=.30), and no significant difference between embalming time was reported (p=.47). Histologically, the integrity of the skin was better preserved with the phenol-based technique. Phenol-based embalming provides as realistic or better of a model as Thiel embalming for surgical training skills and was generally preferred over Thiel model. The phenol-based embalming better preserved the integrity of the skin.

Development of cadaver perfusion models for surgical training: an experimental study.

Perfusion techniques on cadavers are heterogeneous and imperfect. The objective of this study was to improve the existing circulation model for surgical simulation on cadavers. We used a three-step experimental approach. The first part of the experiment tested two variables: the type of circuit and the use of a heater for perfusion. The second approach evaluated two parameters: the injection fluid and the type of body conditioning (embalmed or freshly dead prepared using different washing techniques). The third one was an improvement on the best circulation obtained, which focused on the injection fluid. To compare the realism of these different techniques, we constructed a score with realism parameters: the volume of return flow, the presence of peripheral venous return and the perfusion of abdominal arteries. We found that the use of a heater seemed to improve the perfusion, while performing an arteriovenous bypass did not seem very effective. A correlation rate of 0.84 was found between the realism score and the injected fluid chosen. The best score (4/6) was found for a non-embalmed body with a low-pressure washing technique using a gelatin-based liquid at a concentration of 4g/L for circulation. Scores obtained using embalmed bodies for both injection fluids for high-pressure washing or for 8-g/L gelatin injection fluid did not exceed 3/6. We showed that using a non-embalmed body with low-pressure washing and a 4-g/L gelatin-based fluid was the most effective technique for cadaver perfusion.

Variation of the brachial plexus roots in the interscalene groove: relevance in interscalene blocks

Objectives: The interscalene block is utilized for regional anesthesia of the upper limb, targeting the roots and trunks of the brachial plexus in the interscalene groove. The prevalence of variation, which may affect the success of this block, has not been documented in detail with respect to side and sex, nor has a classification system been proposed. Methods: Seventy-nine embalmed bodies were dissected bilaterally. The position of the roots and the subclavian artery relative to the anterior scalene muscle was documented and variations were classified according to prevalence. Differences in the prevalence of variation between left and right sides and between males and females were investigated. Results: The standard position of the nerves and subclavian artery in the interscalene groove (Type 1) was present in 31.6%. Variant positions included the following passing through the belly of the anterior scalene: C5 and C6 roots (Type 2) (46.8%), C5 root (Type 3) (15.2%), C5 and C6 roots as well as the subclavian artery (Type 4) (3.8%), and lastly, C5, C6 and C7 roots (Type 5) (2.5%). Variant anatomy was statistically more prevalent in females on the right side only. Conclusion: Variant locations of the roots and subclavian artery external to the interscalene groove were common, suggesting that ultrasound should be used to visualize variations prior to performing interscalene blocks. A classification type of variant positions has been developed for standardization.

Quantitative and Qualitative Comparison of Thiel and Phenol‐Based Soft‐Embalmed skin for Surgical Training

BACKGROUNDSurgical training requires high‐fidelity models to in vivo. Embalmed cadaveric material has long been used as the standard. However, conventional formalin embalming is known to affect the quality of the tissue, compromising the tissue quality for optimal realistic surgical training. The aim of our study was to qualitatively compare Thiel and phenol‐based soft‐embalming techniques in a surgical training setup and to quantitatively compare the mechanical properties of embalmed skin to fresh tissue state.METHODSTwenty‐eight participants (4 experienced ENT and 6 residents; 8 Orthopaedic residents; 4 experienced OTL; 5 experienced Trauma and 1 resident) were involved in surgical workshops comparing Thiel and phenol‐based embalmed bodies. Participants were asked to evaluate pre‐defined aspects pertaining to their appreciation of the skin quality as the usability for skin dissection and suturing.In parallel, mechanical testing of skin flaps was conducted. Skin flaps were harvested from 6 fresh‐frozen thawed cadaveric upper limbs. Skin flaps from each specimen were divided in 3 equal in size sections; one subsection was refrozen, one was Thiel embalmed and the other one was phenol‐based embalmed.The three tissue states were compared together for each specimen, one month of embalming (n=3) or one year after embalming (n=3). Specimens were preloaded and pre‐conditioned before displacement‐controlled cycles were applied using an axial tensile testing machine (MTS, Eden Prairie, MN, USA). The tensile elasticity (Young's modulus) was calculated between loading and unloading state. Statistical analysis was performed using a two‐ way mixed ANOVA with a Holm‐Sidak correction for multiple comparisons.RESULTSQualitatively, 18% of participants rated Thiel as more realistic and preferred this model for skin dissection and suturing; 64% preferred Phenol‐based soft‐embalmed; and 18% rated that both embalming states were comparable.Quantitatively, there were significant differences between the embalming techniques (p &lt; 0.05), but no significant difference were made between embalming time (p = 0.47). Thiel embalmed skin had a significantly lower Young's modulus values compared to fresh state (p &lt; 0.0001). There were no significant differences between phenol‐based embalmed skin and fresh state (p = 0.30).CONCLUSIONAlthough there was variability in the relationship between tissue states, fresh and phenol‐based embalmed state were not consistently stiffer than the other, but both were stiffer than the Thiel embalmed samples; Thiel solution caused the samples to be less stiff than the fresh state. Based on our results, phenol‐based soft‐ embalming preserves the integrity of the skin tensile elasticity better, which could explain the better rating of this embalming technique for the practice of surgical exposures, simulated reconstructions and wound closure. Moreover, phenol‐based embalmed specimens can be prepared for a third of the cost and with none of the elaborate setup required for Thiel embalming.This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.

Plants and aromatics for embalming in Late Middle Ages and modern period: a synthesis of written sources and archaeobotanical data (France, Italy)

Occasionally mentioned in written sources since the Early Middle Ages, embalming with evisceration spreads considerably and becomes quite usual practice for aristocratic elites from the late 13th century to the early 19th century. Apothecaries prepare aromatic powders including many plant organs and exudates supposed to preserve the body. Numerous encyclopaedias and treatises of medicine list these ingredients and show that the recipes are very diverse. Moreover, several studies of embalmed bodies have demonstrated the potential of archaeobotanical analyses coupling pollen and macro-remains for identifying this material. This paper aims to compile a synthesis of written and archaeological sources from France and Italy, and to assess the relevance of an interdisciplinary approach for a better understanding of this aristocratic burial practice. It demonstrates that both types of sources and approaches are strongly complementary and highlights their inherent advantages and methodological limitations. In order to understand which criteria were determinant in the composition of the embalming powders, their medicinal, odoriferous and symbolic properties are discussed. Finally, this work proposes some methodological perspectives and triggers new research avenues on the history of pharmacy in Late Medieval and modern Europe.

Temporal and comparative analysis between abdomen dissection methods for aorto-caval exposure

Abstract Introduction: The systemic exposure of the Human Body or dissection is considered of utmost importance by the study of abdominal vasculature, due to its applicability in Clinical Medicine, Surgery, Radiology and Pathology. The specialized literature does not mention comparative studies of time spent for execution of different dissection methods in order to prioritize the quickest method, and thereby, optimize academic or professional training in Anatomy or Emergency Surgery. The present research aimed at comparing the time required to perform dissection methods that prioritize the exposure of large abdominal vessels. Materials and Methods: Embalmed bodies of six adults were considered for execution (by the same professional) of Cattell-Braasch and Mattox maneuvers by manual blunt dissection or surgical instruments. Discussion: We evaluated the time spent for satisfactory completion of both maneuvers as well as for proper exposure of the large abdominal vessels, with statistical analysis using the Mann-Whitnney test with a 5% significance level. Conclusion: The Cattell-Braasch maneuver, blunt dissection or surgical instruments are similarly quick for folding of the cecum and adequate exposure of the inferior vena cava. For Mattox maneuver, blunt dissection is quicker compared to that performed by surgical instruments for the folding of the sigmoid colon and large aortic exposure.