Flexible Plastinates by von Hagens Plastination offer new possibilities in anatomical learning. Educators and learners can engage in new ways via tactile exploration of flexible tissues, all while maintaining the benefits of plastinated specimens.
Kinaesthetic learning, layer-by-layer
Flexible Plastinates enhance both exploratory and kinaesthetic learning. Layered anatomical arrangements can be explored from skin to bone. Structures can be mobilised to reveal positional relations and tendons pulled to move joints.
Novel learning, just a movement away
Flexible Plastinates enable the development of novel learning tasks such as the deconstruction and reconstruction of anatomical arrangements, direct visualisation of structure movement, and exploration of anatomical spaces.
Forever flexible
Flexible Plastinates offer many of the benefits of Silicone Plastinates. They require no specialist facility or storage conditions and last indefinitely with little change in appearance or tissue flexibility.
Dissectible to match curricular needs
Flexible Plastinates are available as professionally dissected specimens, but can be further dissected and modified by end-users to ensure a perfect match to curricular needs. For the ultimate in customisability, they can even be provided undissected.
Target more curricular outcomes
Flexible Plastinates partner perfectly with Silicone Plastinates (HP), expanding learning possibilities and allowing educators to target a greater range of curricular outcomes.
Available to qualified users only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the plastination process and how does it work?
Why are Flexible Plastinates (HPF) a different colour to Silicone Plastinates (HP)?
The colour of Silicone Plastinates is derived from a combination of coloured polymer injection into vessels and a special paint applied to muscles. Due to their flexibility, it is currently not possible to paint Flexible Plastinates therefore, the colours of soft tissues are similar to those seen in preserved cadaveric specimens, with the addition of coloured polymers within vessels.
How are Flexible Plastinates (HPF) different to Silicone Plastinates (HP)?
Flexible Plastinates are created from real human tissue using the same processes as Silicone Plastinates. The main difference is the type of silicone used and how it cures. In Flexible Plastinates, this preserves soft tissue flexibility, while maintaining both the safety and longevity benefits of plastinated specimens.
Are Flexible Plastinates (HPF) safe to use as they look wet and are typically handled with gloves?
Yes, Flexible Plastinates contain non-hazardous silicones and are safe to handle. Some of the silicones may produce an oily film on the surface of the Flexible Plastinates, this enhances tissue feel and provides a wet appearance. The oily film is non-toxic, but can be transferred to hands, clothing, tables and instruments. Disposable gloves are typically worn to keep both the users’ hands and the Flexible Plastinates clean. If handled without gloves, hands can be cleaned with soap and water. Work surfaces can be cleaned with paper towels, followed by a standard cleaning product or solvent.
Can Flexible Plastinates (HPF) be cleaned?
Surface dust can be wiped away with a clean dry or wet paper cloth using light pressure. Flexible Plastinates can also be washed with warm water and soft (gentle) soap, gently patted dry with paper towels and left to fully dry at room temperature. In cases of stubborn soiling or staining, please contact us for advice.
How long do Flexible Plastinates (HPF) last? Can they be broken?
As with Silicone Plastinates (HP), with proper handling, care, and storage Flexible Plastinates can last for decades. They are resistant to drying, decomposition, mould, and most environmental damage. Compared to Silicone Plastinates, wear and damage can more easily occur with improper handling or with intensive and high volume use.
