We have chronic problems with GI biopsies, especially adenomatous polyps. We first shortened the processing and frankly, it did not help a great deal. We have changed to ProPar and pro Soft (replacing alcohols and xylene on the processor) and that has helped, but the biggest difference was found when I discovered an article from 1994 or 1996 Journal of Histotechnology. A surfactant was used to soak the blocks. We soak all biopsy blocks in a surfactant and it hasn't eliminated, but it has substantially reduced microchatter. (See the archives for our procedure and the correct reference from the Journal...I don't have it in front of me right now.)
Good luck to you,
Barb Davies
Memorial Hospital
Colorado Springs, CO