Evaluation of several methods used in anatomical investigations of the blood and lymphatic vessels.

The aim of this review is to describe the advantages and limitations of several methods used in anatomical investigations of intravisceral blood and lymphatic networks. The microangiographic methods as well as corrosion methods are described. In conclusion the authors confirmed that the most useful way for exploration of the blood and lymphatic vessels is to prepare corrosion casts. This paper focuses on the scanning electron microscopic examination of vascular corrosion casts. This method allows the examination of the three-dimensional organisation of vessels, including the blood and lymphatic capillaries. Imprints of endothelial cell nuclei can be observed on the surface of the blood and lymphatic vessels.