Plastination: An innovative method of preservation of dead body for teaching and learning anatomy

Background: Plastination is the process to preserve the perishable biological tissues for long time using curable polymers. This technique was invented by Gunther Von Hagens, a German anatomist, in 1977. Since then, there have been many modifi cations according to the need and availability of infrastructure in various institutions. Many deviations from the standard plastination procedure have been suggested and used successfully. Methods: Modified short plastination protocol using epoxy resin has been adopted and standardized by the Department of Anatomy, Maulana Azad Medical College. Results and Conclusion: This technique provides dry, odorless, durable, nontoxic specimens that are easy to handle and can be stored at room temperature indefi nitely. This can be performed in a short period of time with limited and less expensive infrastructure. Our department organizes regular national workshops on “body preservation techniques” to train young anatomists.