What is the best artery to use when embalming a 1-day-old infant?

The best artery to use when embalming a 1-day-old infant is the abdominal artery, specifically the abdominal aorta. This choice is optimal due to the size and developmental stage of the infant. The abdominal aorta provides a central and large enough vessel to adequately distribute embalming fluid throughout the body.

While smaller vessels, like the brachial artery, could technically be used, they may not allow for efficient fluid distribution in the entirety of the small body. The femoral and subclavian arteries are also not ideal because they are generally more suitable for adults and present challenges in accessing and utilizing them in such a small anatomical area. In contrast, the abdominal aorta is more accessible and, because of its location, facilitates better distribution of the embalming solution. This results in more uniform preservation of the tissues, which is crucial for maintaining the appearance of an infant during the embalming process.