The use of methyl methacrylate for the preparation of casts of the cerebral ventricles

Abstract

Dissection is the best way to study the anatomical relations of the cerebral ventricles; a resin cast, however, illustrates more accurately their actual size, shape and intricate anatomy. A study of the resins available in Malta showed that methyl methacrylate, much used in dental mechanics, could be availed of to produce a detailed, beautifully coloured, rigid cast of the comparatively large cerebral cavities. The greatest advantage of methyl methacrylate is the ease with which it can be processed. Shrinkage after processing is negligible so resulting in a markedly true and well-marked impression of all the structures immediately related to the ventricles. A technique is described for the use of methyl methacrylate as a resin for the preparation of casts of the cerebral ventricles. Additionally, its advantages and disadvantages are discussed whereby it is hoped that in future this resin will be used more for this purpose.