We also have no problems with an artifact from the foam sponges.   If the
tissues are fixed well before they are placed between the sponges, it's not
a problem.   If our tissue are fresh we use the histoscreen cassettes.  
Hazel

> -----Original Message-----
> From:	Terry.Marshall@rgh-tr.trent.nhs.uk
> [SMTP:Terry.Marshall@rgh-tr.trent.nhs.uk]
> Sent:	Wednesday, August 01, 2001 9:49 AM
> To:	DTMan@kingmower.com.au; histonet@pathology.swmed.edu
> Subject:	RE: Tissue processing - small biopsies
> 
> Let's get this straight David. You get no problems with foam artefact you
> say. 
> Do the pathologists? (You have not denied getting it, just having problems
> with it).
> 
> Terry L Marshall
> Histopathologist
> Rotherham General Hospital, Yorkshire
> 
> I'm with Amos, agar/ gel is a pain. We use black foam biopsy pads and
> train staff to embed properly. We have no problems with so called
> crushing or foam artifact. David.
> 
> David Taylor
> Laboratory Manager
> Drs