Embalmed Cadavers Research Articles

An anatomical and histological narrative of a subcutaneous muscle of the anterior abdominal wall in human cadavers: a case report

This report investigates a subcutaneous muscle layer found during routine dissections in four formalin embalmed human cadavers donated for medical training. The gross and microscopic morphology is described and potential implications in humans are raised. Tissue samples were taken from representative regions of the anterior abdominal wall and stained using Haematoxylin & Eosin followed by Masson’s Trichrome. The muscle tissue was seen in the deepest layers of the hypodermis of the anterior abdominal wall, with variable presentation between cadavers. Visually, it appeared as a thin greyish-pink or brown layer with variable morphology based on location, namely, sheet like, discontinuous, and enmeshed within fascial layers, with a thickness ranging from 1 to 5 mm. Tissue staining revealed muscle fibres in all samples. Our incidental findings add gross and histological evidence for the presence of a subcutaneous muscle layer found in the anterior abdominal wall of humans.

Critical appraisal of Genelyn soft embalming for cadaveric surgical skill training: A systematic review.

Genelyn is a proprietary embalming solution used for preserving cadavers for surgical skill training (SST) and undergraduate teaching. The aim of this review is to examine the Genelyn embalming method critically by analyzing scientific publications that have employed this method for SST and undergraduate education. The systematic review process involved searching for all relevant articles in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase using the keywords "Genelyn," Genelyn embalming," "Genelyn embalmed cadaver," and "surgical skill training. All studies on Genelyn embalming published up to August 14, 2024, in the English language were eligible for inclusion. The literature review yielded 92 studies, 43 of which met the inclusion criteria. The Anatomical Quality Assurance (AQUA) tool from the International Evidence-Based Anatomy (iEBA) working group was used to assess and analyze the risk of bias in all the selected full-text articles. The selected studies reported that Genelyn embalming provided life-like joint range of motion, tissue pliability, and color. Cadaveric studies assessing embalming solutions typically had smaller sample sizes, and few of them compared Genelyn embalmed cadavers (GECs) with the other soft embalming solutions. Unlike Theil's embalming, Genelyn embalming is cost-effective, with easy steps for the preparation and storage of the solution and convenient handling of cadavers. Therefore, GECs serve as an efficient tool for SSTs.

Anatomical Variations of the Bifurcation Levels of the Common Carotid Artery and Superior Thyroid Artery.

Variations in the carotid arterial system significantly impact atherosclerosis's clinical and surgical management, which predominantly occurs at arterial bifurcations. This study aimed at evaluating anatomical variations in the bifurcation levels of the common carotid artery (CCA) and the superior thyroidartery (STA), emphasizing clinical relevance. This was an observational cross-sectional study conducted in June 2021 using 32 embalmed cadavers of adult age from medical schools in Khartoum, Sudan. Sixty-four carotids were examined, noting the levels of CCA bifurcation and STA origin, and their symmetry across both sides of the body. Results: Among the cadavers studied, CCA bifurcation most commonly occurred at the superior border of the thyroid cartilage (46.9%), followed by the body of the hyoid bone (40.1%). The STA predominantly originated from the external carotid artery (ECA) (65.6%). Conclusion: No significant correlation was found between the bifurcation levels of the CCA and the origins of the STA. Bilateral symmetry in the bifurcation of the CCA and the origin of the STA was observed in most cases. The study highlights notable variations in the anatomy of the carotid arteries. These findings suggest that pre-surgical imaging and careful planning are crucial to accommodate anatomical diversities.

Retrospective denoising and sharpening effects on postmortem computed tomography images of formalin-fixed human cadavers for human anatomy education and research

BackgroundThe value of formalin-fixed postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) has significantly increased in human anatomy education and research. However, improving embalmed PMCT images with high noise, low contrast, and multiple artifacts is an important challenge in enhancing the quality of clinical images. Retrospective denoising methods for embalmed PMCT data are essential for anatomical education and research when new-generation CT scanners with denoising functions are unavailable. MethodsThe three currently available standalone software denoising methods, including image summation methods (Fused CT), noise-reduction system methods (iNoir), and iterative reconstruction (IR, SafeCT), were used to analyze the retrospective noise-reduction effect on 13 human formalin-fixed PMCT datasets. ResultsFused CT had some advantages; however, it was not useful for embalmed cadavers because of high noise, which doubled with the addition. iNoir and SafeCT improved the visual image quality of the noisy cadaver images. Statistical examination showed a 22–67 % and 18–56 % improvement in noise reduction in the non-artifact and metal artifact parts, respectively, depending on the methods and denoising intensities. However, this improvement was not statistically or morphologically significant in the presence of strong metal artifacts. In contrast, the scattered metal and streak artifacts peculiar to cadaveric images showed effective morphological and statistical improvement. ConclusionsRetrospective denoising of embalmed PMCT images showed significant morphological and statistical improvements in noise reduction and is feasible for current anatomy education and research.

Retrocolic Fascia-An Anatomical and Multidetector Computed Tomographic Angiography (MDCTA) Morphometric Analysis in Patients with Right Colon Cancer.

This study aims to delineate anatomical landmarks crucial for complete mesocolic excision, focusing on Gerota's fascia, which guides surgical dissection in right-sided colon cancer, forming the posterior limit. Employing a multimodal approach, the research aims to understand the fascial anatomy and its variations under pathological conditions. Three methods were applied: a pilot dissection on an embalmed cadaver for clear anatomical presentation of prerenal fascia, Mimics segmentation of the fascia and its relationship with the colon, and a retrospective analysis of MDCTA scans from 196 patients (mean age 65.73 y, 118 F/78 M). Systematic measurements of fascial thickness were taken at key renal levels-upper pole, hilum, lower pole, and infra-renal. Covariates analyzed included Body Mass Index, age, and sex. The pilot dissection revealed the renal fascia of Gerota as the only true retrocolic compact connective tissue and the fusion fascia of Toldt as a mesh of strands of loose connective tissue and fat lobules. MDCTA showed clearer visualization of Gerota's fascia at the hilum and inferior renal pole, predominantly on the left. There were significant differences in fascial thickness between sides (1.30 mm on the right and 1.34 mm on the left) and a positive correlation with BMI, whereas age and sex showed no significant effects. Gerota's fascia is a critical anatomical landmark in CME for right colon cancer. This study highlights the fascia's structural integrity, unaffected by the tumor, underscoring its importance in surgical navigation.

Surgical cystectomy training using human cadavers embalmed using Thiel's method: a pilot study.

To develop the use of Thiel soft embalmed human cadavers (TeC) in open radical cystectomy (ORC) training for the first time, to investigate the effect of cadaveric training on surgical trainees' technical skills/performance and to determine how trainees perceive the use of cadaveric workshops. A 3-day hands-on workshop was organised. Ten trainees performed ORC on five TeC, supervised by five experts. Feedback from trainees and mentors was evaluated on a five-point Likert scale. All procedures were completed in a fully equipped surgical environment and complied with the principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki. The workshop participants evaluated the anatomical and manipulation characteristics of the TeC as similar to real-life conditions. The colour and consistency of the urethra and ureter differed little from those in live patients. The trainees stated that the TeC were beneficial for learning the stages of ORC and urinary diversion (UD), while their self-confidence increased. In terms of realism, all steps of radical cystectomy (RC) were rated 4 out of 5 or higher on the Likert scale by both trainees and faculty. The use of TeC for RC und UD was perceived as favourable by trainees and faculty. The TeC demonstrated a surprising ability to mimic real-life anatomy and represent a new and effective surgical training tool.

Anatomical Trajectory of the Corrugator Supercilii Muscle in Koreans: Implications for Aesthetic and Clinical Practices.

Understanding the attachment patterns of the corrugator supercilii muscle (CS) is vital for treatments designed to improve facial symmetry and functionality. The aim of this research was to elucidate the anatomical trajectory and intricate relationships of the CS within the upper face and midface, specifically focusing on its connections with the frontalis (FT) and orbicularis oculi (OOc) muscles. The CS was examined in 41 specimens of embalmed adult Korean cadavers using microdissection, histological analyses, and microcomputed tomography, an in-depth exploration of its anatomical positioning and intricate interactions with adjacent muscles. Some lower fibers of the CS extended to the upper orbital part of the OOc in 59.5% of cases, while the CS interdigitated or blended exclusively with the FT in 40.5% of cases. The fibers of the CS demonstrated diverse extensions towards the upper face and midface, exhibiting varied trajectories and lengths. Additionally, lower fibers of the CS extended to significant anatomical landmarks such as the OOc, malaris muscle, and the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS). This study demonstrates that precise understanding of the CS and its relationship with the FT and OOc is crucial for optimizing invasive or non-invasive treatment like botulinum toxin injection, SMAS lifting and browplasty surgery. The extension of lower fibers of the CS to significant anatomical landmarks indicates complex interactions with adjacent facial structures, highlighting the necessity of detailed anatomical knowledge for clinical applications.

The Importance of Topographical Recognition of Pulmonary Arteries in Diagnostics and Treatment of CTEPH, Based on an Analysis of a Dissected Case Model-A Pilot Study.

Knowledge of the anatomy of pulmonary arteries is essential in many invasive procedures concerning pulmonary circulation. In the diagnosis and treatment of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH), two-dimensional (2D) pulmonary angiography is used. Recognizing the topographic course of the pulmonary arteries and understanding the status in three dimensions (3D) is paramount. This study aimed to evaluate and describe the branching variant of pulmonary arteries in a single case, as well as morphological parameters of the segmental arteries, like length, diameter and branching angles. One pair of embalmed human cadaver lungs was dissected by a scalpel and surgical forceps and was measured up to the subsegmental arteries. The diameters (ranging from 3.04 to 9.29 mm) and lengths (ranging from 9.09 to 53.91 mm) of the pulmonary segmental arteries varied. The proximal branching angles were wide and close to perpendicular, while distally, the angles between the segmental and subsegmental arteries were narrower (30-45°). Upon evaluating the branching, rare variations were identified and delineated, notably in the lower lobes of both lungs. Utilizing knowledge and data in clinical settings is instrumental for effectively diagnosing and treating CTEPH. Further research is required to explore the complications in invasive procedures related to various anatomical variations.

Exploring the atlantic part of the vertebral artery in the South Indian population and its implications in spine surgery.

A descriptive, quantitative cross-sectional study of the atlantic part (V3) of the vertebral artery (VA). This study aimed to bridge the research gap in the morphometry of the V3 segment of the VA in the South Indian population. The microsurgical anatomy of this segment of the VA has been explored in various populations, and a thorough understanding of the anatomy and course of the VA, particularly the V3 segment, is essential to prevent iatrogenic complications. Several computed tomography studies but a few cadaveric studies have explored the V3 segment of the VA in the South Indian population. This study examined 40 VAs from 20 embalmed cadavers that were obtained from the voluntary donation program, and Institutional Ethical Clearance was obtained before the study. The length, diameter, and angle of the vertical, horizontal, and exit parts of the V3 segment of the VA were documented after its exposure. The mean lengths of the right and left VAs on each part were nearly similar, except for the mean length of the horizontal part (right: 38.937 mm, left: 40.237 mm) and total length of the V3 segment (right: 66.870 mm, left: 70.350 mm). These morphometric parameters are essential to spine surgeons who intend to operate on a small part (vertical, horizontal, or exit part) of the V3 segment of the VA. The mean values of the parameters obtained in this study give average measurements or safe limits to surgeons for safe surgical procedures such as the occipital condyle screw technique and C1 laminectomy.

Sihler's staining of the anterior belly of digastric muscle for botulinum toxin injection.

The anterior belly of the digastric muscle (ABDM) is the target of botulinum toxin injection; however, anatomical considerations related to the injection point are absent. This study used Sihler's staining to analyze the intramuscular nerve distribution of ABDM to identify the most effective botulinum toxin injection points. We used 12 specimens from 6 embalmed cadavers in this study. The specimens were manually dissected to preserve the mylohyoid nerve and subjected to Sihler's staining. From the gnathion to and hyoid bone, the ABDM was divided into three equal parts, distinguishing the anterior, middle, and posterior thirds. Only a branch of the mylohyoid nerve entered the ABDM, and its entry point was located in the middle-third region in all cases. The nerve endings were concentrated in the middle third (100%), followed by the anterior third (58.3%) and were not observed in the posterior third. The landmarks used in this study (gnathion and hyoid bone) are easily palpable on the skin surface, allowing clinicians to target the most effective injection site (middle third of ABDM). These results provide scientific and anatomic evidence for injection points, and will aid in the management of ABDM injection procedures in clinical practice.

Student performance in anatomy examinations depending on the modes of learning/teaching: onsite or online

Introduction: Traditionally, anatomy is a subject that involves a hands-on lab-based component using embalmed cadavers and histology slides. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic there were many changes to Sri Lankan medical education. This study analysed the effect on student performance in anatomy teaching/ learning methods with the start of COVID-19 pandemic in a Sri Lankan medical faculty. Methods: Three student groups with completely onsite (Batch A), transition to online midway through the semester (Batch B), and almost completely online (Batch C) were included. Their second-semester examination performance was analysed in total and component-wise [multiple-choice questions (MCQ), short-answer questions (SAQ) and objective-structured practical exams (OSPE I – Projections, OSPE II – Gross spot]. Descriptive analysis, Kruskal-Wallis and Dwass-Steel-Critchlow-Fligner tests were used for comparison.Results: Allocated proportions for MCQ:SAQ:OSPE Rewere 30:40:30. Mean MCQ marks of batches A, B, C were 14.8,14.9, 16.4 and mean SAQ marks were 24, 25.1, 24 respectively with significant differences in both [MCQ-H(2)=29.1, p=< .001, SAQ- H(2)=11.3, p= .003). With MCQs batch C had the best performance (p=< .001), whereas batch B had better performance than batch A (p< .001) in SAQs. Mean OSPE marks were 24.8, 17.4, 20.7 with a significant difference (H(2)=334.8, p=< .001). Batch B had lower performance than batch A and C (< .001), while batch A had performed better than batch C (< .001) in OSPEs.Conclusion: MCQ performance was better in online learners while OSPE performance, which reflects the understanding of the three dimensional structure was better in onsite learners. This highlights the value of receiving hands-on experience with cadavers and histology practicals.

Anatomical study of the relationship between the lumbar intervertebral disc, nerves, and psoas major.

Cadaveric study; To describe the characteristics of the nerve and its relationship with the lumbar intervertebral disc and psoas major muscle. Nerve injury is an understudied complication of extreme lateral interbody fusion. A detailed description of the nerve anatomy would be helpful for surgeons to minimize the risk of this complication. The lumbar plexus and lumbar sympathetic nerve of 10 embalmed male cadavers were dissected, and the distribution, number, and spatial orientation of the nerves on the L1/2 to L4/5 intervertebral discs were examined. Metal wires were applied along nerve paths through the psoas major muscle. The position of the nerves was examined on CT. In zone III at L1/2 and L4/5, no nerves were found. In zone II and zone III at L2/3, no lumbar plexus was found, and only the ramus communicans passed through. At the L1-L5 level, the density of nerves in the posterior half of the psoas major muscle was greater than that in the anterior half. The lumbar plexus was found in all of zone IV. The genitofemoral nerve emerges superficially and anteriorly from the medial border of the psoas major at the L3-4 level, but at the L1/2 level, the sympathetic trunk is located in zone II. The remaining disc-level sympathetic trunks appear in zone I. No nerves were found in zone III of the L1/2 or L4/5 disc. In zones II and III of L2/3, the lumbar plexus appears safe. The genitofemoral nerve travels through zones II and III of L3/4. The distribution density of nerves in the posterior half of the psoas major muscle was greater than that in the anterior half of that muscle at the L1-L5 level.

Isthmus of the corpus callosum – An anatomical investigation

IntroductionThe corpus callosum, a principal commissural fibre-bundle of the brain, connects the two cerebral hemispheres, facilitating interhemispheric communication, cognitive and emotional processes. The anatomical definition of the isthmus of the corpus callosum remains unclear in literature with limited studies focusing on this region. This research addresses this gap by providing a detailed anatomical description of the isthmus of the corpus callosum in a South African cadaveric sample. MethodsDigital photographs of thirty embalmed cadaver brains were analysed and measurements of the corpus callosum and isthmus were taken, as seen on a midsagittal section. ResultsThe results revealed no significant differences in isthmus measurements when comparing the sex of the cadavers. The average length of the isthmus accounted for approximately 16.66 % of the total length of the corpus callosum. The isthmus constituted approximately 17.92 % of the corpus callosum surface area. Females tend to have a larger isthmus relative to the size of their corpus callosum. The prevalence of a posterior notch on the superior border of the corpus callosum was found to be approximately 46.66 % in the studied sample, with males showing a slightly higher prevalence. ConclusionSince the isthmus constituted almost 20 % of the total surface area of the corpus callosum, as seen on midsagittal sections, it should be acknowledged as a fifth part. It should further be included in the undergraduate neuroanatomy curriculum and textbooks, which is currently lacking this information. This research recommends expanding the sample size, encompassing diverse demographics, employing fresh cadavers, and utilize three-dimensional imaging to understand the isthmus of the corpus callosum and its relevance to neuropsychiatric conditions and brain morphology.

Morphology of the obturator nerve, an anatomical study with emphasis on its clinical implications

Background The goal of this cadaveric cross sectional study was to analyse the branching pattern of the obturator nerve morphologically and to determine its dimensions in embalmed cadavers. Methods In this cross sectional study, we examined 50 embalmed adult cadaveric lower limbs. Sex was not taken into consideration in the analysis; however, a side-based comparison was performed. The measurements were performed using a digital Vernier caliper. Results The branching of obturator nerve was observed at the pelvic cavity in 28 specimens (56%) and inside the obturator canal in 12 specimens (24%). The division of obturator nerve wasn’t observed in 10 specimens (20%). The length, width and thickness of the trunk of obturator nerve was 108.26 ± 9.53 mm, 2.84 ± 0.88 mm and 1.11 ± 0.35 mm. The width and thickness of the anterior and posterior divisions of obturator nerve measured 2.19 ± 0.82 mm, 0.9 ± 0.1 mm, 0.99 ± 0.6 mm and 0.71 ± 0.26 mm. The topography of branching of obturator nerve from the superior and inferior border of the obturator foramen was located at 1.48 ± 0.58 mm and 3.07 ± 1.1 mm away. The length of anterior division of the obturator nerve measured 110.88 ± 12.02 mm over the right side and 107.13 ± 7.81 mm over the left side. The width of the main trunk of obturator nerve was 2.87 ± 0.64 mm over the right side and 2.82 ± 0.64 mm over the left side. Conclusions We believe that morphometric data of the obturator nerve will be enlightening to the operating surgeon during procedures such as obturator nerve block, nerve transplantation, and obturator nerve repair. The dimensions of the obturator nerve observed in the present study can be utilized as a morphological database for our sample population.

Morphometry of the thyroid cartilage, epiglottis and piriform sinus: An anatomical study.

The goal was to measure the piriform sinus, epiglottis, and thyroid cartilage in our sample population. This study included 22 adult embalmed cadavers available in the Department of Anatomy. Dimensions were measured using a digital Vernier caliper. The mean height of the thyroid laminae was 27 ± 1.4 mm at the right side and 25.5 ± 1.4 mm at the left side. Mean width of the thyroid lamina was 27.1 ± 1.3 mm at the right side and 27.4 ± 0.9 mm at the left side. The mean thickness of thyroid cartilage was found to be 4.4 ± 0.4 mm and 3.9 ± 0.5 mm over the right and left sides. The mean length, width and thickness of the epiglottis were 29.1 ± 0.5 mm, 22.2 ± 0.6 mm and 2.6 ± 0.3 mm correspondingly. The height, width and thickness of the right piriform sinus were 25 ± 0.5 mm, 14.2 ± 0.5 mm and 12.6 ± 0.5 mm, the same parameters were 25.3 ± 1.3 mm, 15.1 ± 0.7 mm and 13.3 ± 0.4 mm for the left side. The height and thickness of the thyroid cartilage were greater on the right side than on the left side (p<0.05). It was statistically observed that the width and thickness were greater on the left side than on the right side (p < 0.05). The data about the height, width and thickness of the thyroid cartilage, epiglottis and piriform sinus are essential during the laryngeal and other neck surgeries. They guide in the preoperative positioning, predicting the difficulty of intraoperative exposure and retractor pulling.

Hip External Rotation Decreases Ischiofemoral Distance: A Positive Correlation Between Cadaveric and Fluoroscopic Studies

PurposeTo determine the effect of hip external rotation or extension/adduction on minimizing the ischiofemoral distance (IFD) and assess the correlation between cadaveric and fluoroscopic IFD measurements in difference hip positions. MethodsThis cadaveric study involved 33 hip joints from 17 embalmed cadavers. IFD, the distance between the lesser trochanter and lateral ischium, was measured in different hip positions: neutral, external rotation at 30° and external rotation at 60° with the hip in both neutral extension and adduction as well as 10° hip extension and 10° hip adduction. Difference in IFD related to positions and correlation between cadaveric and fluoroscopic measurement were analyzed. ResultsIFD measurements showed that the greatest reduction occurred at 60° of external hip rotation, with a significant difference observed only between neutral and 60° external rotation in cadaveric groups (7.60±4.68 vs 5.05±3.48, 95% CI, 0.14 to 4.96; p=0.036). No substantial difference was observed between extension and adduction positions . Positive correlations were observed between cadaveric and fluoroscopic measurements, especially in the neutral position (r=0.492, p=0.004), external rotation at 30° (r=0.52, p=0.002), external rotation at 60° (r=0.419, p=0.015), and the extension/adduction positions combined with neutral rotation (r=0.396, p=0.023). ConclusionThe IFD significantly decreased with increasing degrees of hip external rotation, particularly at 60°. No significant reduction was observed in the extension/adduction positions. Additionally, positive correlations were observed between cadaveric and fluoroscopic measurements for specific hip positions: neutral rotation, external rotation at 30° and 60°, and extension/adduction at 10° with neutral rotation. Clinical RelevanceSurgeons can use this knowledge to improve hip impingement assessment through radiography, focusing on positions where IFD reduction is most notable. Understanding the relationship between hip positions and IFD can enhance the diagnosis of ischiofemoral impingement syndrome and benefiting patient care and outcomes.

Anatomic evaluation to compare the dye spread with ultrasound-guided pericapsular nerve group (PENG) injection with or without an additional suprainguinal fascia iliaca (SIFI) injection in soft embalmed cadavers.

Novel interfascial plane blocks like PEricapsular Nerve Group (PENG) and SupraInguinal Fascia Iliaca (SIFI) blocks are effective for management of hip fracture pain. We compared the difference in the distribution of the dye injected and nerves stained by the addition of the SIFI block to the PENG block. A total of 24 designated dye injections were performed in eight soft-embalmed cadavers. Under ultrasound guidance 20ml green ink injected bilaterally in PENG block and 30ml methylene blue dye was injected in the SIFI block on the right side. The cadavers were dissected 24h later to assess the extent of dye spread. Extensive spread of dyes was seen on both side of iliacus muscle on the right side, but blue dye was not visible medial to the psoas tendon. The subcostal and iliohypogastric nerves were stained green in the infra-inguinal region. On the left side (PENG alone), the anterior division of the obturator, femoral and saphenous nerve (7/8) and iliohypogastric nerves (3/8) were stained in the infrainguinal region. In the suprainguinal region, the femoral nerve (5/8), accessory obturator nerve (3/8), lateral femoral cutaneous (1/8) and nerve to rectus femoris (4/8) were stained. The main obturator nerve trunk was spared with both injections while its anterior branch and accessory obturator nerve were stained with the PENG injection. The study findings indicate that combined PENG + SIFI injections lead to an extensive craniocaudal and longitudinal spread along the iliacus muscle. We perceive that the combination of these two injections will have a superior clinical outcome.

The morphometric parameters of the biceps brachii: cadaveric study.

The biceps brachii (BB) is a fusiform muscle comprising of two muscular bellies located in the anterior compartment of the arm. Its primary function includes elbow flexion and forearm supination. The study aimed to examine the morphometric parameters of the BB in adult cadaveric specimens. This dissection-based study examined the anatomy of the BB in 40 arms taken from 20 Thiel embalmed European cadavers, including 13 males with an average age of 81 years and seven females with an average age of 84 years. The investigation included an observational inspection of the BB morphology and collected 19 parameters, comprising the lengths and widths of the short and long head tendons and muscle bellies. The observation analysis showed that the anatomy of the BB consisted mainly of two muscle bellies: a short head and a long head. An additional third humeral head, originating from the anteromedial aspect of the mid of the humerus and inserted into the common biceps tendon, was observed in four (10%) specimens. The average lengths of the short head and long head were 35.98 ± 3.44cm and 38.90 ± 3.40cm, respectively. There was no difference in the BB parameters according to the arm sides. However, the male specimens showed greater BB parameters than the female specimens. The short head had a greater muscle belly, while the long head had a longer origin and insertion tendons. The BB parameters were correlated positively with the humerus length.

Investigation of the anatomical course of articular branches to the thoracic zygapophysial joints

BackgroundRecent studies have questioned the validity of targeting the thoracic medial branch via anesthetic blocks or radiofrequency neurotomy for the diagnosis or treatment of pain from the thoracic zygapophysial joints. PurposeTo define the origin and course of the articular branches to the thoracic zygapophysial joints at all levels. DesignCadaveric dissection. SettingThe Gross Anatomy Laboratory at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine. SubjectsOne cadaveric thoracic spine. MethodsGross and stereoscopic dissection of the bilateral dorsal rami T1–T12 was performed on one embalmed cadaver. The medial and lateral branches were traced from their cutaneous distribution to the origin at the dorsal ramus. The articular branches were identified using stereoscopic dissection by tracing their origin from the dorsal ramus or medial branch to the capsule of the zygapophysial joint. The images were recorded using digital photography. ResultsTwenty-two of the twenty-four articular branches were identified in a single cadaveric specimen. Articular branches at T7 on the right side and T9 on the left side were not identified. 5 of the 22 (18%) articular branches were observed to arise from the proximal segment of the medial branch of the dorsal ramus. Of the remainder, 17 of the 22 (78%) articular branches were observed to arise from the dorsal primary ramus itself. At levels T1-9, the articular branch coursed inferiorly along the lamina to reach the joint capsule. At levels T10-T12, the articular branch traversed the intervertebral foramen to reach the facet joint. The T12 medial branch on the left was seen to travel inferior to innervate the L1/L2 zygapophysial joint. ConclusionThe source of the innervation for the thoracic zygapophysial is variable and can arise from the dorsal ramus itself or from the proximal segment of the medial branch. Unlike the cervical and lumbar medial branches, which innervate two joints each, in this case, the thoracic dorsal rami appear to innervate only the zygapophysial joint at the level of the nerve exit. It should be noted that the findings may be limited in their generalizability due to the reliance on a single cadaver study.

Investigation of the use of gelatine-glycerine and gelatine-polyvinyl alcohol mixtures as tissue consistency preservatives in cadavers fixed with modified SEFS solution

This study aimed to improve the effectiveness of SEFS, a fixing solution composed of soap and ethanol. This was achieved by modifying the formulation of SEFS. Additionally, this study aimed to preserve the consistency of organs by perfusing cadavers with mixtures of gelatine-glycerin (gelatine-Gls) and gelatine-polyvinyl alcohol (gelatine-PVA) through vascular access. The modified SEFS embalmed cadavers were divided into two groups: Group I was treated with gelatine-glycerin, and Group II was treated with gelatine-polyvinyl alcohol and each group comprised of two goats and three rabbits. Over one year, cadavers were objectively assessed for hardness, colour, and joint range of motion. Additionally, the cadavers were subjectively evaluated after dissection and palpation. For the modified SEFS embalmment haptic and optic examinations of the muscles revealed they maintained a vivid colour tone, closely resembling their natural colour. The thoracic organs displayed natural colour, with the lungs retaining their shape without collapse. Notably, the walls of the atrium and ventricles of the heart remained intact without inward collapse. The use of gelatine-PVA yielded better outcomes than gelatine-Gls in preserving the volumes of both chest and abdominal organs. This was particularly evident in the heart, lungs, liver, spleen, and kidney. Overall, the modified SEFS and gelatin-PVA mixtures were superior in maintaining certain properties better than expected from cadavers.