Walter Thiel's Embalming Method: Review of Solutions and Applications in Different Fields of Biomedical Research

Abstract

's embalming method. Review of solutions and applications in different fields of biomedical research. Int. J. Morphol., 34(4):1442Morphol., 34(4): -1454Morphol., 34(4): , 2016. SUMMARY:Walter Thiel developed the method that enables preservation of the body with natural colors in 1992. It consists in the application of an intravascular injection formula, and maintaining the corps submerged for a determinate period of time in the immersion solution in the pool. After immersion, it is possible to maintain the corps in a hermetically sealed container, thus avoiding dehydration outside the pool. The aim of this work was to review the Thiel method, searching all scientific articles describing this technique from its development point of view, and application in anatomy and morphology teaching, as well as in clinical and surgical practice. Most of these studies were carried out in Europe. We used PubMed, Ebsco and Embase databases with the terms "Thiel cadaver", "Thiel embalming", "Thiel embalming method" and we searched for papers that cited Thiel`s work. In comparison with methods commonly used with high concentrations of formaldehyde, this method lacks the emanation of noxious or irritating gases; gives the corps important passive joint mobility without stiffness; maintaining color, flexibility and tissue plasticity at a level equivalent to that of a living body. Furthermore, it allows vascular repletion at the capillary level. All this makes for great advantage over the formalinfixed and fresh material. Its multiple uses are applicable in anatomy teaching and research; teaching for undergraduates (prosection and dissection) and for training in surgical techniques for graduates and specialists (laparoscopies, arthroscopies, endoscopies).

Thiel embalming: Quantifying histological changes in skeletal muscle and tendon and investigating the role of boric acid

“…the brain, is problematic often resulting in additional fixation being required. Despite Thiel preserved cadavers being used in an increasing number of surgical and anatomical investigations (Benkhadra et al, 2009;Boryor et al, 2010;Eisma et al, 2010;McLeod et al, 2010;Fessel et al, 2011;Prasad Rai et al, 2012;Ernesto Ottone, 2016;Verstraete et al, 2016;Lone et al, 2017;Zwirner et al 2019) a distinct paucity of information remains pertaining to how and why it produces cadavers with more life-like qualities. embalmed skeletal muscle and tendon.…”

Detection of Vascular Pathways of Oral Mucosa Influencing Soft- and Hard Tissue Surgeries by Latex Milk Injection

“…The unique combination of Thiel's embalming and latex milk injection methods enable the oral-maxillo-facial surgeons and periodontists to practice on fresh specimens while observing the directions of different vessels 4,19,20 . However, there might be some limitations with the staining of small-diameter vessels due to blockage by clots or not using enough pressure to push the material into the small arteries during the procedure.…”

“…Several types of fixative solutions that can be used for embalming head specimens 13,14,15 . This solution conserves the natural color of tissues and vessels 16,17,18,19,20 . It has no detectable odor and maintains tissue elasticity of body parts as well as antimicrobial preservation of cadavers, and it can be useful for the development of new surgical devices or evaluation of a surgeon's skill 16,17,18,19,20 .…”

Preservation of Animal Cadavers with a Formaldehyde-free Solution for Gross Anatomy

“…They have been used in the training of surgeons, maximizing the benefit of the dissection and of the performance of procedures, according to Benet et al (2014). 4,5 One of the best soft-preservation techniques is the Thiel embalming technique, in which the tissue remains flexible and preserves color. Nevertheless, it is difficult and expensive to implement.…”

“…Nevertheless, it is difficult and expensive to implement. 6 However, the Thiel and Benet embalming techniques contain 2% formaldehyde 5 and has been reported as toxic, corrosive, carcinogenic, mutagenic and with an objectionable odor. 7 Another soft-preservation technique is the mixture of ethanol with glycerin 8 and thymol, 9 with no addition of formaldehyde.…”