A new contrast agent for radiological and dissection studies of the arterial network of anatomic specimens

Abstract
Purpose The aim of the present study is to propose a new
contrast agent that can be easily applied both to CT and
dissection studies to replace lead oxide based formulas for
comparative anatomical analyses of the vascularisation of
cadaveric specimens.
Methods The infusion material was an epoxy resin,
especially modified by the addition of barium sulphate to
enhance its radiopacity. The final copolymer was toxicologically
safe. To test the properties of the new material,
several cadaveric limb injections were performed. The
injected specimens were both CT scanned to perform 3D
vascular reconstructions and dissected by anatomical
planes.
Results There was a perfect correspondence between the
image studies and the dissections: even the smallest arteries
on CT scan can be identified on the specimen and vice
versa. The properties of the epoxy allowed an easy dissection
of the vessels.
Conclusions The new imaging techniques available
today, such as CT scan, can evaluate the vascular anatomy
in high detail and 3D. This new contrast agent may help
realising detailed vascular studies comparing CT scan
results with anatomical dissections. Moreover, it may be
useful for teaching surgical skills in the field of plastic
surgery.