Coloring Muscles and Vessels of Plastinated Limbs with Colored Silicone to Supplement Teaching

1 Department of Anatomy, Lincoln Memorial UniversityDeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harrogate, TN 37752 USA. 2 College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN USA ABSTRACT: Plastinated specimens, which have been painted or stained to highlight anatomical structures, can be helpful materials for medical students as well as others interested in studying anatomy. However, one problem with these specimens is that the paint often chips off due to being handled by many students and teachers. It may also wear off naturally if the specimen is kept for a long time. In this experiment, specimens were colored prior to the curing stage in an attempt to improve durability and better adherence of the color to the specimen. The results were then compared to techniques used by McCreary (2013). Colored specimens were challenged using methods which might be similar to routine handling during study. It was expected that the new coloring technique of applying the solution prior to the cross-linking stage instead of after the cross-linking stage would provide a stronger adhesion to the specimen. Although the color on the specimen applied prior to the cross-linking step demonstrated a more polished appearance compared to the color applied after the cross-linking stage, various durability tests confirmed no better efficacy or durability in adhesiveness of the silicone color to the specimen. Rather, some of the color came off when rubbed with fingers or latex-gloved hands. .