Techniques for Cadaveric Preservation of the Biliary Tract for Anatomical Studies: A Mini Review

The preservation of human cadavers for anatomical studies and preparation of prosections for teaching dates back to the third century B.C. The ability to examine the intact structural environment of the human body is crucial for understanding normal anatomy and variations. Techniques have evolved with growing knowledge, and anatomists and dedicated clinicians have developed methods to preserve entire bodies as well as internal structures with delicate and precise architecture. These techniques range from formalin preservation of the whole body to corrosion cast preparation of selected structures.
With this review, we discuss the methods that are primarily used for preservation of the biliary tract for anatomical studies and teaching.