Pathologies
When viewed alongside normal specimens, Pathologies enhance the learner's conception of the location, morphology and consequences of disease.
Available across the range
Common Pathologies are available across the normal product range. These will be offered as unique items or can be requested in Silicone Plastinates, Bones and Bespoke product ranges during the ordering process*. Commonly seen pathologies include atherosclerosis, arterial aneurysm, fracture, intestinal diverticulum, lymphadenopathy, hernia, prostatic hyperplasia, renal cyst, uterine fibroid, malignancy, metastases, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, hepatic cirrhosis, splenomegaly and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
*May be subject to extended lead times, not all pathology or combinations of pathology are available.
The normality of pathology
Due to the variable health of body donors, one or more common pathologies may occur incidentally within our normal product ranges. The presence of such pathology does not adversely affect views of normal anatomy and often serves to enhance the learning experience.
Directly visualize form and location
Due to its reproducible nature, a range of Pathologies are always available in Anatomy Glass. The undissected view demonstrates the tissue location of disease, including metastases, and the potential local effects of masses, space-occupying lesions or bleeds. Anatomy Glass also allows larger groups to simultaneously learn using the same physical resource.
Available to qualified and non-qualified (Anatomy Glass only) users
Got a question about Pathologies?
In what ways are Silicone Plastinates (HP) and Sheet Plastinates (HS) useful?
Silicone Plastinates and Sheet Plastinates reveal real human anatomy in captivating detail. Designed by expert anatomists, they provide unrivalled and complimentary views of human anatomy. They are safe to use and suitable for all ages of learner. Read more about Silicone Plastinates here.
We teach by dissection and won’t change this – should we also consider using Silicone Plastinates (HP)?
Anatomical learning benefits from the use of multiple approaches, resources, view and techniques. Reliance on a single approach (e.g., dissection) is inefficient, ignores learner needs and ignores best practice learning theories. Silicone Plastinates can integrate seamlessly into a dissection-based course and offer unique and alternative views and routes for learning outcome attainment.
Where does the human tissue used in von Hagens Plastination specimens come from?
von Hagens Plastination exclusively uses human tissue derived from body donors that have donated their body for plastination for anatomical and healthcare education. All donations are made in life under full and informed consent. The body donation program is managed by the Institute for Plastination and is subject to independent audit.
What is the plastination process and how does it work?
Can human anatomy be learnt well using only electronic resources?
No. Electronic resources can supplement anatomical studies but cannot replace the benefit of studying real human tissue. Plastinates reveal real human anatomy from multiple and unique perspectives, facilitating a deeper comprehension of real morphology, relationships, functions, application and variance. Importantly, studying real human anatomy is personally connecting for learners, via the promotion of emotional engagement, and inherently demonstrating the real-world application of anatomical knowledge: these factors are essential to the learning process (1).
(1) Willis, J. (2007) Teachable Moments Build Relational Memories. Kappa Delta Pi Record 43.3
