Comparison of Medical Imaging Quality Related to Embalming Solutions in Canine Cadavers.

Abstract

(1) Background: This study evaluated the quality of medical imaging acquired using radiography, ultrasonography, and computed tomography (CT) in canine cadavers prepared with formalin solution, Thiel solution (TS), and saturated salt solution (SS). Additionally, the duration whereby image quality could be properly reproduced was investigated. (2) Methods: Nine dog cadavers, divided into three groups per embalming solution, were imaged pre- and post-embalming at 6 and 12 weeks using three different imaging modalities. Image quality was qualitatively scored based on human medicine guidelines criteria. The score was assigned as follows: "0 = not invisible, 1 = poorly invisible, 2 = adequately reproduced, 3 = very well reproduced". (3) Results: On plain radiography, most scores were > 1.34, although the quality of all embalming solutions in thoracic and abdominal images decreased over time. Using ultrasound to image the liver, spleen, and kidney, the SS group was evaluated as poorly visible and scored < 0.82 at 6 and 12 weeks. CT images showed a tendency to degrade over time, but all solution groups had properly implemented images and scored > 1.62. (4) Conclusions: Regarding image quality and ease of application, TS is considered the most suitable embalming solution for medical imaging acquisition and is usable over time in all imaging modalities.