plastinierte

Plastinierte is a German term used to describe specimens that have undergone plastination, a preservation method that replaces water and lipids in biological tissues with a polymer, producing durable, dry, odorless specimens. The technique, developed by Gunther von Hagens in 1978, is used to create plastinated bodies and organs for educational and display purposes. The process typically involves fixation, dehydration, forced impregnation with a polymer (such as silicone, epoxy resin, or polyester), and curing to create a rigid or flexible final product. Variants include sheet plastination for thin sections and whole-body plastination.

Plastinierte Präparate are valued in medical education because they can be handled safely, do not require special refrigeration, and preserve anatomical details, colors, and textures. They are commonly found in medical schools, university anatomy labs, and natural history or science museums. In German-speaking countries, the term plastinierte is widely used to describe such specimens, and the specimens are often produced with donor consent and ethical review.

Controversies exist regarding consent, the display of human remains, and the potential for sensationalism in exhibitions. Proponents emphasize educational value, long-term preservation, and the ability to study anatomy in a tactile way; critics call for stricter ethical guidelines and transparency about origins. Overall, plastination and plastinierte specimens have become a prominent tool for anatomy education and public science communication, balancing educational benefits with ongoing ethical consideration.