Comparative gross anatomic evaluation of fetal cadavers embalmed with modified saturated salt solution to that of traditional saturated salt solution and formaldehyde.

BACKGROUND

The study explores the degree of tissue preservation, the flexibility of joints, and anatomical alterations of fetal tissue embalmed with modified saturated-salt solution compared to the traditional saturated-salt solution and formaldehyde solutions.

METHODS

Study involved four groups of fetuses. The first group was embalmed with 37% formaldehyde, the second group was embalmed with the modified saturated-salt solution followed by immersion, the third group was embalmed with a modified saturated-salt solution and placed in a refrigerated chamber, and the fourth group was embalmed with a saturated-salt solution and immersed in the same solution. Anatomists compared the gross anatomic appearances across four embalming methods using a checklist.

RESULTS

The immersion group of modified saturated-salt solution had life-like quality, tactile fidelity, and organ consistency, especially in the first six months. After six months, gross-anatomic features of saturated-salt solution, cold storage, and immersion groups of modified saturated-salt solution were not significantly different. General appearance of the immersion group of modified saturated-salt solution remained superior even at the end of one year. The cold storage group of modified saturated-salt solution maintained a more natural smell and softer organs at the end of the first year than other groups. Immersion group of modified saturated-salt solution joint range of movements was greater than that of the other group throughout the preservation time.

CONCLUSION

Modified saturated-salt solution immersion can be considered an ideal fetal cadaveric preservation method, and even modified saturated salt solution embalming with cold storage is also not inferior, while long-term storage is considered.