Avaliação de polímero de base vinílica na preservação de material anatômico pela técnica de plastinação

Abstract

Plastination is a promising alternative considering the urgent need to reduce or replace formaldehyde as a preservative for anatomical specimens due to its toxicity and risks to human health and the environment. This process involves replacing the fluids and fats in biological tissues with a curable polymer, resulting in anatomical material with a plastified appearance. Although it is an excellent alternative to formaldehyde, its adoption is still limited by the high complexity and costs, making it unfeasible for many anatomy laboratories. In this context, the present study initially involved a systematic review and scientometric analysis of publications indexed in the Web of Science (WOS) to analyze the evolution and applications of the plastination technique. The study then focused on developing and evaluating a polyvinyl acetate (PVAc)-based impregnation solution as an alternative polymer for plastination of anatomical specimens, aiming to reduce costs and improve process quality. Bovine hearts and kidneys were plastinated following fixation, dehydration, forced impregnation, and curing, using PVAc as the plastination agent. The efficiency of the process was evaluated using instrumental techniques (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy with Attenuated Total Reflection (FTIR-ATR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric Profile (TG/DTG/DTA), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), and histological analysis). The scientometric analysis identified Germany as the leading country in producing knowledge on plastination, with significant influence from Austria, China, and the United States. The technique has been widely applied in education, scientific research, and commercial exhibitions, demonstrating its versatility and global impact. The experimental results showed that plastination with PVAc is a viable alternative for anatomical preservation, surpassing formaldehyde-based methods. The formulation containing 85% PVAc, 10% acetic acid, and 5% glycerol ensured lower shrinkage, flexibility, and structural preservation. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy with Attenuated Total Reflection and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy confirmed the impregnation of the polymer in the anatomical specimens. Thermal analyses indicated greater stability of the plastinated samples, while SEM micrographs and histological analysis demonstrated the maintenance of tissue integrity. This research highlighted the potential of plastination as an educational and research tool and also proposed accessible and safe solutions for the future of anatomical preservation.