Description
This model is a cross-section of the thorax at the level of the T6 vertebra. Beginning posteromedially at the spinal cord within the vertebral canal, then moving radially, the costovertebral joints of the 6th ribs are visible, followed by several other ribs around the margin of the thoracic cavity, a pair of which unite anteriorly with the sternum via the costosternal joints. Additionally, the oesophagus and descending aorta are visible anterior and lateral to the T6 vertebral body, respectively.
Inside the plural space, lined by the parietal pleura, reside the inferior and middle lobes of the right lung and the inferior lobe of the left lung.
In the middle mediastinum the heart, within the pericardium, is transacted to reveal the left atrium posteriorly, then moving clockwise, the aortic valve, right ventricle and the right atrium.
Advantages
- Anatomically accurate and identical to real specimen
- No ethical issues - not real human body parts
- Reasonably priced
- Available within a short lead time
- Reproducible, several identical prints can be used as a classroom set
- Can be produced in different sizes to cater for the needs of the teacher
Human Cadavers
- Access to cadavers can be problematic. Many countries cannot access cadavers for cultural and religious reasons
- Cadavers cost a lot money
- High cost for establishing your own plastination suite
- Wet specimens cannot be used in uncertified labs
- Dissection of cadavers is a lot of staff time and that is a cost
- Storage of cadaver material needs special refrigeration etc. which has coast
- If you want another specimen you have to start all over again
Plastinates
- Costs
- Ethical issues
- Timeframe for plastination process
- Many countries do not allow their importation
- One of a kind
Superior 3D print results compared with conventional methods
- Vibrant color offering with 10 million colors
- UV-curable inkjet printing
- High quality 3D printing that can create products that are delicate, extremely precise and incredibly realistic
Clear Support Material
- To avoid breakage of fragile, thin, and delicate arteries, veins or vessels, a clear support material is printed on such spots. This makes the models robust and can be handled by students easily.
