SALFIX - Alternative Long-Term Solution for the Preservation of Veterinary Anatomical Specimens: A Comparison Between Saturated Saline Solution and FineFix®.
admin-cespu
Principal Investigator:
Rui Damazio Alvites
Leader Institution:
1H-TOXRUN-CESPU
Research Team:
Rui Damazio Alvites (PI); Sónia Vilar Gomes de Sá (Co-PI); Mariana Lei
Funding entity:
CESPU
Budget:
2 163,93 €
Period covered:
01.09.2026 - 31.08.2027
Abstract:
This pilot project at CESPU aims to evaluate safer alternatives to formaldehyde for preserving anatomical specimens in Veterinary Anatomy teaching. Formaldehyde is widely used for its low cost and long-term preservation, but it is highly toxic and classified as a human carcinogen. The study will compare two formaldehyde-free methods: Saturated Salt Solution (SSS) and FineFix®, a low toxicity ethanol-based fixative. Sixteen feline pelvic limbs from eight cadavers will be randomly assigned to the two preservation methods and monitored over six months. Assessments will include colour, texture, flexibility, odour, hydration, and tissue quality, while veterinary students and professors will perform blinded pedagogical evaluations to determine the effect of each method on dissection and structure identification. This pilot study will provide evidence to support safer, sustainable, and effective preservation methods, improving practical Veterinary Anatomy teaching and promoting a healthier learning environment at CESPU.
This pilot project at CESPU aims to evaluate safer alternatives to formaldehyde for preserving anatomical specimens in Veterinary Anatomy teaching. Formaldehyde is widely used for its low cost and long-term preservation, but it is highly toxic and classified as a human carcinogen. The study will compare two formaldehyde-free methods: Saturated Salt Solution (SSS) and FineFix®, a low toxicity ethanol-based fixative. Sixteen feline pelvic limbs from eight cadavers will be randomly assigned to the two preservation methods and monitored over six months. Assessments will include colour, texture, flexibility, odour, hydration, and tissue quality, while veterinary students and professors will perform blinded pedagogical evaluations to determine the effect of each method on dissection and structure identification. This pilot study will provide evidence to support safer, sustainable, and effective preservation methods, improving practical Veterinary Anatomy teaching and promoting a healthier learning environment at CESPU.
Project area: