Severe Edema –

Concentration 4.0%

Dilution – approx. 16 oz. per gallon solution (Using a 33 index) Use Dilution Calculator for all other index’s 

Directions – 

1. Dissolve 2 cups Epsom Salt completely in 1 gallon of lukewarm water; keep in separate container.
2. Pour 16 oz of 33 index arterial into embalming machine tank,
3. 5-8 oz of capillary conditioner,
4. 5-8 oz. of drainage chemical and
5. 8 oz edema chemical. Next,
6. Pour dissolved salt water up to 1-gallon total solution* (roughly 1/3^rd tank using a 3 gal. tank). Pour through nylon stockings to filter un-dissolved salt crystals from entering embalming machine tank.

Repeat as necessary.  Use professional judgment, but approximately 1 gal for every 50 lb. of body weight should be considered.  

*Some manufacturers suggest against the use of Epsom Salt, but I’ve never had an issue with all the most popular machines on the market.

Authorization to perform embalming procedures above and beyond “NORMAL EMBLMAING” is strongly recommended and may be required in some situations.

Recommended procedures:

Select Subclavian Artery for injection.

After injection, elevate hand(s) above elbow, the more vertical the quicker gravity works.

Consider channeling up the forearm from the elbow (near the funny bone), with a trocar.  Next, reverse the trocar up the same incision to channel the bicep. 

Leave incision open as long as possible before dressing.

Consider using a scalpel to make an incision on the front of forearm (supine position) then positioning the arms in repose for maximum drainage.