We found that soaking the block in 5% NaOH for a period of time (1 - 2 hrs)
before sectioning softened the face enough to get some good sections.  We
also tried softening the hoof before processing, but got too much distortion
of the hoof by the time it was soft enough to cut.

Bruce W. Brodersen, DVM, PhD   Email:  bbrodersen1@unl.edu
University of Nebraska         Voice:  402 472-1434
Veterinary Diagnostic Center   FAX:    402 472-3094
Lincoln, NE  68583-0907

-----Original Message-----
From: Jim Staruk [mailto:jstaruk@masshistology.com]
Sent: Tuesday, May 04, 1999 10:18 AM
To: Histonet Listserver
Subject: equine hoof wall sectioning




Sorry for this repeated topic, but will someone please send me the
technique
for softening and sectioning hoofs?  I know this was covered recently and I
thought I saved the messages but ....
Thanks
Jim
_________________________
James E. Staruk, HT(ASCP)
Mass Histology Service
http://www.masshistology.com