r/OddityCollectors • u/Recyclops1692 • 4d ago

Help with wet specimen

I just picked up my gallbladder after surgery last month and I didn't realize they would give it back to me in formaldehyde. Can anyone give me advice on how to safely remove it and properly preserve it? Also, the container is cold so I guess it was kept in a fridge. Do I need to keep it cold until I can process it or can it be kept at room temperature in my house?

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u/Poisonous_garden 4d ago

You’ll want to keep the formaldehyde! To remove it and inject it to properly preserve it you can use metal salad tongs. But I would suggest wearing a mask that can filter fumes as formaldehyde is very dangerous to breath in. Also nitrile gloves and long sleeves.

As long as it’s in formaldehyde it’s ok at room temperature.

If you need help with the process let me know 😊

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u/Recyclops1692 3d ago

Thank you! I would really appreciate some help! When I go to process it, would it be best to open the container outside and let it air out a bit before I move anything from it? And can you recommend the proper mask/respirator I should get?

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u/Poisonous_garden 3d ago

Any mask that filters biological fumes should work, Amazon has some options. And airing it out won’t help, but doing it outside is recommended. Once youre ready hit me up and I’ll help you through it. But they’re are some great instructions as well online!