Biosafety implications of cadaver preservation methods in veterinary anatomy education

Abstract Cadaver dissection remains fundamental in veterinary medicine and anatomy education, providing an irreplaceable experiential learning opportunity. It fosters three-dimensional anatomical understanding, the development of manual dissection skills, and early insights into clinical practice. Despite growing availability of digital and virtual simulation tools, preserved animal cadavers remain essential and are still preferred for anatomy teaching, surgical training, and diagnostic instruction. No alternative method reproduces anatomical structures with the same fidelity as a real cadaver. Preservation methods significantly affect teaching quality, occupational health for students, instructors, and staff, laboratory biosafety, and regulatory compliance. Traditional formaldehyde fixation effectively prevents tissue degradation and microbial growth; however, it is toxic, potentially carcinogenic, and impairs tissue color, flexibility, and realism. Saturated saline solutions have emerged as a low-cost, accessible, and pedagogically advantageous preservation option. The hyperosmotic environment delays autolysis and putrefaction while better preserving tissue texture, color, and joint mobility. However, saline does not sterilize cadavers, raising concerns about the potential persistence of halotolerant microorganisms, environmental contamination, and occupational exposure risks. This review synthesizes the literature on cadaver preservation in veterinary anatomy, focusing on biosafety and microbiological hazards. Emphasis is placed on preservation in saturated saline solution as a potentially promising alternative method, although long-term microbiological evidence remains limited and fragmented. The review examines evidence of bacterial and fungal contamination in cadavers, preservative solutions, laboratory surfaces, and fomites, particularly clinically relevant and potentially zoonotic pathogens. By integrating perspectives from anatomy education, microbiology, and occupational health, the review identifies knowledge gaps and highlights the need for standardized microbiological monitoring and biosafety protocols in laboratories adopting innovative preservation strategies.