Les Résidences et jardins funéraires Bessette

What is thanatopraxy?

Thanatopraxy (commonly called embalming) is a set of techniques used to preserve and present the body of the deceased, preparing it so that it looks natural and serene.

Thanatopraxy is performed for several purposes:

hygiene;
preservation;
presentation of the remains.

Several steps are involved:

disinfection of the body with special compounds to eliminate germs and bacteria;
removal of excess fluid and gases from body cavities and organs;
injection (replacement of the blood with a formaldehyde preservative solution);
removal of organ contents;
final disinfection using an antiseptic soap;
full asepsis of the mouth, eyes, nose, and ears;
shaving;
draining of the body;
dressing;
hairstyling;
make-up;
placement in the casket.

The entire process takes two to three hours on average. All of these steps are performed with the greatest respect.