Modern Embalming Techniques Facilitating Anatomical Education and Surgical Training: A Comparative Narrative Review

In the 21 ^st century, anatomical preservation has transitioned from traditional formaldehyde-based methods to a diverse array of soft-fix protocols, non-formalin alternatives, plastination, and cryopreservation. While conventional hard-fixation provides robust long-term microbial protection, it often results in rigid, discoloured specimens that lack the joint mobility required for modern surgical simulation. This narrative review synthesizes current literature to compare these modalities based on tissue fidelity and educational utility. Soft-fix techniques, specifically the Thiel and Genelyn methods, significantly enhance tissue flexibility, thereby improving student procedural confidence and surgical skill acquisition compared to traditional methods. However, these techniques often demand specialized infrastructure and higher operational costs. Emerging regional innovations, such as low-formalin solutions optimised for tropical climates, have demonstrated microbial stability for over 6 months in pilot evaluations, offering a cost-effective alternative for resource-limited settings. This review underscores the urgent need for standardized international guidelines and quantitative evaluation frameworks to optimize cadaver preservation for 21 ^st -century medical training.