Abstract
Introduction The present study describes a variation of the cryodehydration technique, applied
to prepare biological tissues by repetitions of section freezing and thawing (SFT).
First developed for muscles and then viscera, the aim of this process as presented
here is to obtain anatomical segments to be used in anatomy classes, general exhibitions
and museums.
Materials and Methods The animal, previously fixed in 10% formalin, must be frozen and then sectioned in
longitudinal, transverse and horizontal slices of the body-axis. It has two steps:
the “burning phase,” in which ice crystal formation and water dilatation cause micro
ruptures in the tissue; and the “dehydration phase,” developed to dry out the slices
segments slowly and, at the same time, to impregnate tissues with wood glue.
Results The obtained slices present several advantages, such as being dry segments, of light
weight, and being rapidly used, easily stored and promptly studied. Also, it is possible
to study the different organs of one segment and, by apposition, remount an entire
animal, enabling a dynamic study.
Conclusion This very simple and inexpensive technique produces anatomical preparations with
high durability and resistance, which are very helpful in practical and theoretical
classes.
Keywords
anatomical technique - cryodehydration technique - anatomical slices
