Comparative Analysis of Plastination vs Formalin Preservation: A Sustainable Paradigm Shift in Undergraduate Rachana Sharira Teaching

Traditional cadaveric preservation in Rachana Sharira relies heavily on formaldehyde, a chemical increasingly scrutinized for its carcinogenic potential and pungent, irritating vapors. While effective for initial fixation, formalin-fixed specimens often suffer from tissue discoloration, fragility, and high maintenance requirements. Formalin has been the gold standard for cadaveric preservation in Rachana Sharira for centuries. However, its high toxicity and the physical degradation of specimens pose challenges for undergraduate teaching. This study aims to provide a comparative analysis between traditional formalin preservation and silicone-based plastination, evaluating their respective efficacy as sustainable teaching tools in undergraduate medical education.