Enhancing the Understanding of Anatomy Through the Coloration and Plastination of Anatomical Specimens

Gross anatomy is a difficult subject for medical school students to learn on a three-dimensional level. Through the use of plastination, organs can be dissected and positioned to display specific structures, and then can be preserved in silicone casts. These threedimensional specimens serve as useful study aids for students as they help them to visualize and gain a better understanding of the structures and functions of the human body. In attempts to enhance the educational efficacy of plastinated specimens for medical students, a branch of research has been devoted to the coloration of finished plastinated specimens. When painting the specimens, vessels and nerves are color coordinated to provide better visuals for the students. Using colored specimens, a student cannot only view the anatomy three dimensionally, but they can also better distinguish specific structures of the specimens. In the past, specimens that were plastinated and colored by conventional application of acrylic paints showed a significant deterioration of paint following contin ued handling over time. This was because the paint did not adhere well to the silicone surface of the specimen. After testing several paints, solvents, and primer coats, we found that by using the acrylic paint applied to the specimen prior to catalyst and with ethyl silicate (Silbond-40®) coated on top of the paint followed by a final coat of lacquer after the catalyst was applied, the new application demonstrated more paint durability that withstood vigorous handling.