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Evolution in Embalming Techniques

Shaheen Rizvi, null, Shaheen Rizvi1 null, Sharadkumar P Sawant null

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Indian Journal of Anatomy 11(3):p 79-84, July-September 2022. | DOI: https://doi.org/10.21088/ija.2320.0022.11322.8

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Shaheen Rizvi, Sharadkumar P Sawant/Evolution in Embalming Techniques/Indian J Anat. 2022;11(3):79-84
 


Timeline

Received : July 01, 2022         Accepted : August 01, 2022          Published : September 01, 2022

Abstract

Embalming is the art and science of preserving cadavers or human remains by treating them with chemicals. The use of balms and balsams to impregnate the dead body for preservation has gained the name embalming. A well fixed and well embalmed cadaver is a great asset not only for anatomical dissection but also for research purposes and for viewing by friends, relatives or the public at the time of cremation. This article discusses the chemicals used in embalming, types and methods of embalming, modern preservation methods, the precautions to be taken and the medicolegal aspects related to embalming. Chemicals used in embalming are a variety of preservatives, disinfectant agents and additives which are combined in various proportions to produce the embalming fluid, the predominant chemical being formalin. The modern embalming process is of four types, arterial, cavity, hypodermic and surface embalming. In anatomical embalming, the 3 methods recommended are the gravity method, electric injector or Mechanical pump method and injection method which are described in detail. The processes used are injection, distribution, diffusion and drainage. Other modern methods underway are Thiel method of soft embalming, Plastination and Cryopreservation. Extra precautions need to be taken for cadavers carrying infections such as TB or HIV. Regarding covid-19, WHO recommendation is in alignment with CDC (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention) which state that Embalming is not recommended to avoid excessive manipulation of the body; Adults >60 years and immunosuppressed persons should not directly interact with the body


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This research received no funding.

Author Contributions

All authors contributed significantly to the work and approve its publication.

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Provide information related to the Ethics Committee approval with approval number OR write This article does not involve any human or animal subjects, and therefore does not require ethics approval.

Acknowledgements

We would like to express our gratitude to the patients, their families, and all those who have contributed to this study.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.


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Cite this article

Shaheen Rizvi, Sharadkumar P Sawant/Evolution in Embalming Techniques/Indian J Anat. 2022;11(3):79-84
 


Licence:




Received Accepted Published
July 01, 2022 August 01, 2022 September 01, 2022

DOI: https://doi.org/10.21088/ija.2320.0022.11322.8

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Received July 01, 2022
Accepted August 01, 2022
Published September 01, 2022

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