127 - Ultrasound Quality in Thiel-embalmed Anatomic Specimens at the Carpal Tunnel at Different Time Points

Poster Board Number: 127
There are separate poster presentation times for odd and even posters.
Odd poster #s – first hour
Even poster #s – second hour

Abstract Body : Background: Human cadaver specimens are essential for anatomical research and education. Most dissection courses are performed on specimens embalmed in formaldehyde or alcohol, enabling up to years of educational use. However, due to the conservation, the tissue properties are altered, and the use of such specimens in research is limited. A different method of conservation was proposed by Thiel in 1992, leading to softer and more realistic specimens. The purpose of this prospective observational study was to assess ultrasound imaging quality in Thiel-embalmed specimens at different time points since conservation.
Methods: Ultrasound examinations were performed at 13 wrists of Thiel-embalmed cadavers at different time points since conservations (7 on specimens embalmed for less than 12 months, 6 on specimens embalmed for more than 19 months). Focus was put on the contents inside the carpal tunnel and the flexor retinaculum. The image quality was assessed by a three-point Likert scale, defining poor (1 point), average (2 points), and excellent (3 points) imaging quality. Descriptive statistical analysis and independent t-test were performed in SPSS. A p-value < 0,05 was defined as statistically significant.
Results: Image quality varied between the two groups (average score in specimens older than 12 months: 1,33; in specimens younger than 12 months: 2,29; p: 0,012).
Conclusion: Ultrasound quality of Thiel-embalmed specimens is significantly better at the carpal tunnel, if specimens have been embalmed for less than 12 months.