Complete Examination of Mastectomy Specimens Using Sheet Plastination with Epoxy Resin
Andreas Guhr, Axel Mueller, Hans-Werner Anton and Gunther von Hagens
Summary
A method is described for the complete macroscopic and microscopic examination of mastectomy specimens. The entire specimen is cut into 2.5 mm slices, stained and plastinated with clear epoxy. This renders each slice so transparent that it can be examined both grossly and at a magnification of 100X or greater. Thinner sections (4-10 microns) may be cut from a plastinated slice if an area requires even closer inspection. The entire process, including macroscopic and microscopic screening takes approximately seven days. Thus, the method is quite practical for use as a diagnostic regimen.