Improved fluids for anatomical embalming and storage

Abstract

Abstract An improved embalming fluid has been developed for anatomical use. Potassium pyrophosphate and magnesium chloride are used to decrease the rigidity associated with formalin fixation. Substitution of sodium pentachlorophenate for phenol improves color relationships and eliminates most of the unpleasant cadaver odor. It gives as much, or more, protection against bacteria and fungi. Sorbitol replaces glycerine as a humectant with less browning of tissues, and a wetting agent is incorporated to facilitate distributionand penetration of the fluid. Wet storage of cadavers is recommended, and a vat fluid is described for use with the new embalming formula.