Yuck,
    I hate that agar stuff. It doesn't cut well compared to the paraffin it
is embedded in. A tissue that normally needs no soaking at all often needs
to be soaked because the agar separates from the paraffin section.
    I'd rather have someone who has a clue what they are doing embed the
tissue and orient it properly than deal with the agar. If a specimen is not
properly oriented, have a chat with the embedder. It really isn't that
difficult, actually orienting the tissue in agar may be more difficult than
in the embedding paraffin. (Especially if someone can't get a reasonable
section and they cut through the specimen in trying.)
Amos Brooks

----- Original Message -----
From: "Coaker, Terry" 
To: "'Histonet'" 
Sent: Tuesday, July 31, 2001 6:07 AM
Subject: Tissue processing - small biopsies


> What is the most secure, reliable, quick and cost effective way of
> processing small biopsies in Tissue Tek II type cassettes?
>
> Metal, plastic and foam inserts, filter paper, tea bag paper, agar
> orientation technique - all have pros and cons.
>
> What is really neeeded, is an agar type substitute.  You place the tisssue
> on to / into this stuff in the required orientation.  The tissue sticks to
> it.  The stuff is resistant to solvents on a processor.  You embed it on
its
> flat surface.  No wrapping needed, orientation correct - sorted.
> Does anyone know the name of this compound ?
>
> Thankyou
>
> Terry Coaker
>
> Chief Biomedical Scientist
> Cellular Pathology
> Royal Victoria Infirmary
> Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4LP
> terry.coaker@nuth.northy.nhs.uk
> 0191 282 4445
>
>
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