LUMINAL CAST PLASTINATION OF EXTERNAL AUDITORY CANAL AS A TEACHING MODEL

Background: Anatomical models are 3 dimensional, homologous models which present anatomical structures life size or enlarged form. These models not only serve as display material but are also used for mastering medical techniques. Models allow students to touch, feel and look closely at them. Plastination is a technique which uses polymers such as resin and silicone in order to create life-like specimens or models which allow realistic visualization of anatomical aspects that are simply too difficult to describe.The study aims to create a plastinated silicone cast of external auditory canal as a teaching model for students. Methods: 8 cadavers were obtained and the external auditory canals were cleaned. Silicone was injected into the canals and the casts were obtained. Results: The casts so obtained were observed for their S shaped curvature andthe two constrictions were also noted. Conclusion: The silicone cast can be used as a museum specimen, to communicate with patients to create awareness about disease process, to educate the public especially in cases of management of deafness and for medical students in surgical training and experimental otological surgeries.