A Comparative Study of Thiel Soft-embalmed and Formalin Preserved Cadavers for Anatomy Dissection

Abstract

Background and Objective. Cadavers are the main teaching and learning tools utilized by faculty and students of Gross Anatomy. The conventional procedure of using formalin to preserve cadavers has its limited benefit due to its obnoxious odor, darkened color, indistinguishable small structures, rigid joints, with friable organs and tissues. Using the Thiel Method, cadavers are known to have: life-like presentation, a high degree of suppleness, natural mobilization of various body parts with tolerable odor, natural color, and antimicrobial and antifungal efficacy. The aim of this study was to compare the Thiel soft-embalmed cadaver and the formalin-preserved cadaver for use in Gross Anatomy dissection.
 Materials and Method. Six formalin-preserved cadavers were compared with six Thiel soft-embalmed ones and were evaluated by 160 first year medical students and 10 faculty members of Gross Anatomy from the University of the Philippines College of Medicine using a visual analogue scale that evaluated the cadaver’s presenting color. A Likert scale was utilized to assess the skin and muscle texture, blood vessel integrity, odor, joint flexibility, and state of cadaver preservation. Their perceptions on the ease of the dissection process, distensibility, and differentiation of structures were also elicited through a questionnaire checklist.
 Results. Results show that the Thiel Method-preserved cadavers were rated higher compared to the formalinpreserved cadavers in terms of: 1) presenting color; 2) tolerable odor; 3) skin and muscle texture; 4) blood vessel integrity; 5) joint flexibility; and 6) state of cadaver preservation after 1 year. However, the ease of the dissection process, the distensibility of structures, and the differentiation of the various structures were easily managed in the formalin-preserved cadavers while the feasibility of practicing laparoscopy, endoscopy, and intubation were seen in the Thiel soft-embalmed cadavers. Results validate the claims of previous studies on the advantages presented in using the Thiel Method.
 Conclusion. Cadavers preserved utilizing the Thiel Method are life-like and can be used for Gross Anatomy dissection. The data gathered support the feasibility of using them also in research and training.

Colorimetric variations in cadaveric tissues embalmed with modified Thiel\\\'s and Formalin solutions: An objective comparative study using image J

“…6 The colour of the tissues has a significant impact on their ease of use and drawing similarity to live tissue. Dissection quality and students' understanding of anatomy were found to be significantly enhanced when tissues were preserved in a manner analogous to that of fresh specimens, as reported by Villacorta et al 11 Tissue colour plays a significant role in the realism and lifelike appearance of cadavers, which can affect students' comfort levels and engagement during dissection and learning activities. 5,12 Comparing the tissue colour of TECs and FECs can provide insights into the potential benefits and limitations of using Thiel embalming for anatomical education.…”

Development of Simulation Platforms for Laser Phonosurgery, Laryngeal Endoscopy, and Fiber–carried Laser Procedures

“…al surmised that Thiel soft-embalmed cadavers were more life-like and "had the potential for research and practicing skills, such as endoscopy, laryngoscopy, and intubation". 17 Another local study by Grullo et al used soft-embalmed cadavers for surgical simulation of endoscopic sinus surgery, with the conclusion that the operation could be practiced with high fidelity and still present with the same technical difficulties. 18 Other studies have utilized Thiel cadavers to train in fiberoptic tracheal intubation, 19 facemask ventilation, direct laryngoscopy, and tracheal intubation, 20 but none for upright procedures.…”

Learning Gains of Liver Resection and Transplantation Workshop on Genelyn® Embalmed Human Cadavers: Surgical Gastroenterologists’ Perceptions

“…5,13 It is reported that the internal organs, blood vessels, nerves and muscles become rough, stodgy and dull in formalin-embalmed cadavers. 14 Liver resection requires extensive mobilization of liver and such a wide range of manipulation may not be possible in formalin-embalmed cadavers, making them unsuitable for surgical skill training. Formalin cadavers have a characteristic acrid smell and burning sensation in the eyes, which makes training in formalin cadavers for prolonged periods difficult.…”

“…Formalin cadavers have a characteristic acrid smell and burning sensation in the eyes, which makes training in formalin cadavers for prolonged periods difficult. 14 In contrast to formalin-embalmed cadavers, Thiels-embalmed cadavers are more suitable for use in surgical skill training. 15 Thiels-embalmed cadavers offer lifelike colour, consistency and fidelity to the tissues and offer a good range of joint movement.…”