Loading
Entire Collection
Plastinated Healthy Human Liver
Specifications
Plastinated Healthy Human Liver
Category
Health and Medicine
Classification
CHENHALL - Tools & Equipment for Science & Technology - Biological T&E - Biospecimen
Physical Characteristics
Object Description: Two (2) sphere-like sections connected by a thin tissue-like membrane running vertically across the middle of the object. Membrane continues across the top and back of the object. Pale pink in color and roughly the size of a football. There are two (2) small holes on the top.
Measurements: Object:
Length: 8.75 in, Width: 6.75 in, Depth: 4.5 in
Credit
Museum Purchase, 2007.3.7
Display Status
On Exhibit
Plastinated Healthy Human Liver
About: Plastinated Healthy Human Liver
About: Plastinated Healthy Human Liver
This human liver was the site of carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism. It is the second largest organ in the human body, behind the skin. This real human specimen was preserved through the process of plastination, invented by Dr. Gunther Von Hagens and patented between 1977 and 1982. Von Hagens’ goal was to preserve specimens for medical study.
Plastination is a multi-step process that can take up to a year to complete. All bodily fluids and soluble fats are removed from the specimens and then replaced by resins and elastomers, natural or synthetic polymer having elastic properties. Once the specimen has absorbed these substances, it can be cured with gas, light or heat to harden and preserve it. The plastination took place at the Institute for Plastination in Germany.
Additional information
Copyright information
The objects and content presented on this website have been reviewed for the copyright status to the extent possible. However, if you believe that any material has been used improperly or without proper authorization, please contact us. We are committed to respecting intellectual property rights and will address any concerns promptly.
Have a question or comment about this object? Contact us.