engleski

The acetic acid experiment –an alternative solution for anatomy specimen preservation?

Introduction: The most common fixative for veterinary anatomy specimens is 10% aqueous solution of formaldehyde. However, formaldehyde is toxic and carcinogenic and should be excluded from veterinary anatomy teaching worldwide. The aim of this experiment was to determine whether acetic acid can be used as a non-toxic, low-cost and ready-to-use available alternative fixative. Materials and Methods: A 1.08% solution of acetic acid was obtained by mixing 3 litres of alcohol vinegar (9%) with 22 litres of tap water. Fresh pig and cattle hearts, pig and goat thoracic limbs, pig and horse head halves were dissected, immersed in the acetic acid solution and stored at +4°C for 10 days. Specimens were checked at day 5 and 10 for colour, flexibility, consistency and odour. Results: At day 5, all the specimens became pale on the surface, softer in consistency, but still firm and elastic enough for manipulation. Deeper tissues retained almost natural colour and harder consistency, but without the characteristic rotten odour. All specimens were suitable for further dissection. At day 10, all specimens kept the right elasticity, though were paler and softer with a slight vinegar odour and suitable for dissection. Conclusion: Specimens preserved with acetic acid solutions have a good consistency, good tissue colour and are free of unpleasant odour. This fixative is safe for usage, cheap and easy to implement and suitable as anatomical specimens that are used over a short time period in the anatomy course.

anatomy specimen preservation, acetic acid, non-toxic fixative

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