NOVA Season 33 Episode 12 The Perfect Corpse

The episode The Perfect Corpse from season 33 of NOVA delves into the science and ethics behind human body preservation and its utilization in medical classrooms and research labs. Human cadavers have been used for centuries to train medical professionals and researchers alike, but traditional preservation techniques are often messy, inefficient, and potentially hazardous to those handling the bodies. However, a new method of corpse preservation has emerged that may revolutionize the way we use and understand human specimens.

The episode begins by exploring the history of cadaver preservation, outlining the various techniques developed over the centuries. From Egyptian mummification to medieval Europe's use of wax and plaster, scientists have long struggled to find a way to preserve bodies in a way that is both safe and effective. Eventually, in the 19th century, a technique known as embalming emerged, which involves injecting a mixture of chemicals into the body to prevent decay. This technique became the standard for preserving human cadavers and is still used today in many countries.

But embalming has its issues. The process can damage tissues, and the chemicals used can be harmful, particularly for those working with the bodies. Additionally, embalmed bodies are often considered unsuitable for research, as the preservation process alters the tissues in ways that make them different from living bodies.

Enter plastination, a new method of corpse preservation that promises to solve many of these issues. Developed in the 1970s by German anatomist Gunther von Hagens, plastination involves replacing the body's fluids with a plastic material that hardens over time. This not only preserves the body but also leaves the tissues in a state that closely resembles living ones, making them ideal for medical and scientific research.

The episode delves into the process of plastination, highlighting the various steps involved in turning a human body into a plastinate. We see how a body must first be dissected, with various organs and tissues carefully removed. These are then treated with various chemicals to remove excess water and replace it with a special polymer. Finally, the body is reassembled and positioned into a variety of poses, facilitating its use in medical and cultural exhibitions.

But plastination is not without its critics. Many have raised concerns about the ethics of using human bodies in this way, particularly given that donors often cannot provide informed consent. Additionally, there are concerns about the commercialization of plastinates, with some arguing that it turns human bodies into commodities to be sold to the highest bidder.

To address these concerns, the episode speaks with various individuals involved in the world of corpse preservation. We hear from anatomists who argue that plastination is essential for training future doctors and researchers, enabling them to study and understand the human body in ways that were previously impossible. We also hear from ethicists who point out the need for transparency and respect when dealing with human remains, arguing that donors should have more of a say in how their bodies are used.

Overall, The Perfect Corpse is a fascinating look at the science and ethics behind human body preservation. Through interviews with experts in the field and an exploration of various preservation techniques, the episode provides a nuanced perspective on this controversial topic. Whether you're a medical professional, an ethicist, or simply curious about the mysteries of the human body, this episode is sure to captivate and educate.