Examination of pelvic anatomy by section plastination technique

Objectives: The aim of this study was to provide long-term preservation of the pelvic coronal cross-sections using plastination technique. Thus, we intended to provide a better understanding of the three-dimensional anatomy of the pelvis for education and research purposes. Methods: The standard plastination method was combined with the section plastination technique. The coronal pelvis sections of 8mm thickness were passed through the plastination stages. At these stages, unlike the techniques in the literature, surgical aspirator was used for cleaning the surfaces of the sections and xylene was used for lightening the plastinates. Results: At the end of the plastination stages, the sections preserved the real color and texture extremely well. Sections were dry, odorless, hygienic and could be handled without special precaution. Moreover, anatomical details were very clear and understandable, so that any structure could be measured photogrammetrically. Conclusion: Examination of the pelvic anatomy with coronal sections via plastination method could be very effectively used in education and research. In this way, a technological and up-to-date innovation can be provided for the development and understanding of three-dimensional anatomy. Real examination of cross-sectional anatomy instead of virtual radiological images can provide a useful and effective tool for both students and researchers.