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Ahsa Oh, Sung-Min Nam, Sang-Soep Nahm, Ki-Dong Eom, Woosuk Kim
Background
Canine cadavers are essential in veterinary medical education, particularly for imaging training. However, embalming methods can affect imaging quality over time. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of three embalming solutions—formalin solution (FS), Thiel solution (TS), and saturated salt solution (SS)—in preserving medical imaging quality in canine cadavers over 12 weeks.
Methods
Nine adult beagle cadavers were divided into three groups (FS, TS, SS). Radiography, ultrasonography, and computed tomography (CT) scans were performed at baseline (pre-embalming) and at 0, 6, and 12 weeks post-embalming. Image quality was graded using standardized criteria from human medicine, with scores ranging from 0 (not visible) to 3 (excellent reproduction). Statistical analysis assessed differences in image quality across solutions and over time.
Results
Radiographic image quality declined over time for all embalming solutions, but FS maintained higher scores (>1.34). Ultrasound imaging showed rapid degradation in SS cadavers, with visibility scores <0.82 by week 6. TS cadavers preserved ultrasound quality best, maintaining soft tissue visibility. CT images also degraded over time, though all groups retained adequate quality (scores >1.62). TS provided the best overall imaging preservation, balancing flexibility for positioning with imaging clarity.
Limitations
The study was limited to nine cadavers, and storage conditions (refrigeration rather than immersion) may have influenced results. The study duration was 12 weeks, and longer-term effects were not assessed. Variability in embalming penetration could have impacted image quality inconsistencies.
Conclusions
Thiel solution (TS) was the most suitable embalming method for veterinary imaging education, offering good preservation across modalities while maintaining soft tissue flexibility. FS maintained radiographic and CT quality but limited joint mobility. SS was the least effective due to rapid image degradation. These findings support the use of TS-embalmed cadavers in veterinary medical imaging training.
Thoracic radiographic images of the FS embalmed cadaver. Fixed as maximal inflated lung condition with intubation of the endotracheal tube. (A,C) = pre-imaging; (B,D) = 12 weeks. RL: Right lateral recumbency; VD/R: Ventodorsal recumbency/Right; R:Right. The mean score of imaging quality was 3.00 for Pre and 2.50 for 12 weeks
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