Skip to Content

Search

Entire Collection

Plastinated Diseased Human Liver

Specifications

Plastinated Diseased Human Liver

Category

Health and Medicine

Classification

CHENHALL - Tools & Equipment for Science & Technology - Biological T&E - Biospecimen

Physical Characteristics

Object Description: Human liver roughly the size of a beach ball. Pale pink in color with a thin, tissue-like membrane running vertically across the middle of the object, then splitting off into two (2)horizontal directions at the top of the object. There are two (2) small holes at the top.

Measurements: Object:
    Length: 9.5 in, Width: 10 in, Depth: 4 in

Credit

Museum Purchase, 2007.3.8

Display Status

On Exhibit

Plastinated Diseased Human Liver

About: Plastinated Diseased Human Liver

About: Plastinated Diseased Human Liver

The liver shown here is enlarged and may not have functioned properly. This can be from hepatitis, anemias, or other metabolic disturbances. 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 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.