A Minimalistic Technique for Neural Tissue Preservation and Neuroanatomical Education: A Quantitative Study of the Elnady Technique on Human Specimens
Authors: Reihl Sheantel J. , Rubio Roberto Rodriguez , Harmon Derek 
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Cadaveric shortages have been a challenge to anatomy education for many years(1). As access remains low in many parts of the world, many institutions are relying on plastinated specimens(2). While plastinated models solve cost and toxicity issues, in neuroanatomical education, a common complaint is that the rigidity of these models prevents exploration of deep‐brain structures and the visual‐spatial learning necessary for a concrete understanding of neuroanatomy(3). The Elnady Technique is a method of plastination that solves many of the drawbacks of traditional plastination, while maintaining the advantages. It is a low cost technique that uses cheap, easily accessible reagents, no complex lab equipment, and produces specimens that are dry, malleable, odorless, and can be stored on a countertop for many years.

Methods

A cadaveric head, previously fixated in 10% formaldehyde, was disected and four neural structures were isolated; a superficial temporal artery (STA), brain stem, cerebellum hemisection, and left hemispheric cortex (white matter dissected). Specimens were drained of embalming solution, then dehydrated in 100% acetone baths for 4–7 days. Daily hydrometer readings were taken until measurements were consistent >99% over two days. Specimens were then drained of acetone and placed in a glycerol bath for a 7‐day impregnation period. Specimens were then immersed in cornstarch and allowed to cure for 7 days. To evaluate the utility of this method, specimens were evaluated quantitatively; by weight and size, and qualitatively; by color, texture, and odor.

Results

Pre‐ and post‐treatment measurements are reported in Table 1. Pre‐treatment weights for the STA, brain stem, cerebellum, and left hemisphere were 0.2g, 8.5g, 39.6g, and 223.5g, respectively, and post‐treatment weights were 0.2g, 7.8g, 33.4g, and ___g, respectively. On average, specimens showed a __% change in height, __% change in width, and __% change in length. The final products had virtually no change in color that could be noted grossly, had soft, pliable texture, and no detectable odor.

Conclusion

Cadaveric dissections and prosections have been the foundation of anatomy education for many years, however cost and availability of specimens are major challenges around the world. Particularly in the acquisition and maintenance of cadaveric brains due to their fragility and unsuitability for long‐term storage in solution. The Elnady Technique is a simple yet effective method for preservation of human cadaveric specimens that produces high quality samples from fresh or previously embalmed specimens. Preservation can be done quickly and safely, without the specialized equipment and patented chemicals usually required for plastination, and no special storage methods are required. Thus, it is an ideal technique for basic and/or low resource settings, and could be a potential solution to the exorbitant expenses related to acquiring and maintaining quality cadaveric brain specimens over long periods of time. The final product is dry, odorless, and pliable, and can be handled without gloves, or masks, therefore presenting a unique way to learn neuroanatomy and interact with cadaveric neural structures outside of the traditional anatomy lab.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.