This might be stating the obvious but........
If this is a problem with one tech's cutting - does that one person
cut on the same microtome each time? If they do, then that may
indicate "mechanical" rather than personal error.
1.  If you are using tissue tek type embedding moulds and cassettes
check that the wax is filled up sufficiently in the cassette to
provide good stability.
2. Check that the microtome block clamp is holding the block tightly,
and that blades, knives etc are also without "play"
3. Depending on the age of the machine it might need a good service to
replace worn parts.

regards

On 10/16/05, CrochiereSteve@aol.com  wrote:
> I know this has been discussed before, but, does anyone have any suggestions
> to reduce the amount of microchatter in the glands of prostate needle bx's? I
> have been having a recurring problem with this (usually with the same tech)
> and would like to make suggestions to this tech (other than "Don't cut bx's).
> I've tried soaking the blocks and cutting slower, but this doesn't seem to be
> solving the issue. Is there a different fixative other than NBF that we could
> use in the collection kits that may help? Any and all suggestions are
>welcome.
> Thanx,
>
> Steven M. Crochiere, HT(ASCP)
> Histology Supervisor
> LifePath Partners @ Mercy Medical Center
> Springfield, MA 01104
> _______________________________________________
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>


--
Louise Renton
Bone Research Unit
University of the Witwatersrand
Johannesburg
South Africa
"....onwards through the fog!"

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