micro chatter in GI bx

From:Barbara.Davies@memhospcs.org

My problem:    micro chatter in Gi biopsies

I need suggestions for improving processing for  GI biopsies.

Here's is what we do already:
*  Fixation:     10% formalin fixed  (our pathologists hate Hollande's...so
that is not an option.)
*  Processing:   We have a separate biopsy only run, which averages 50
biopsy blocks a day.
    we presently use a 4 hour run with Pro-Par and ProSoft no heat on a
Shandon XP.  We have tried a 6 hour (same results as a 4 hour) and a two
hour run (underprocessed tissue).  We  have also tried a 4 hour run with
regular alcohols/xylene processing....same results as we presently get.
We change/rotate processor reagents weekly or bi-weekly depending on needs.
* Microtomy:  We cut two levels.  Blocks are placed on ice trays and soaked
between levels.   We cut at 4 microns.  Chatter is not grossly visible on
the waterbath.

Any suggestions?

Barb Davies
Memorial Hospital
Colorado Springs, CO




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