Milton,
 I also know of a finger amputation but the tech was in a hurry and as a
result was careless. It was an operators error not a mechanical one. I
also know of a tech that developed a problem from repeatedly pushing on
the advance button. I have no experience with this type of automated
microtome so I cannot comment on that problem; I use the foot pedal
model. I use have both the automated and manual and prefer the
automated, but it is personal decision. I think the benefits out weigh
the risk. Hope this helps.

Betsy Molinari HT (ASCP)
Texas Heart Institute
Cardiovascular Pathology
6770 Bertner Ave.
Houston,TX 77030
832-355-6524
832-355-6812 (fax)


-----Original Message-----
From: histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu
[mailto:histonet-bounces@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Gomez,
Milton
Sent: Monday, September 12, 2005 8:18 PM
To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu
Subject: [Histonet] Automated microtomes

Dear Histonetters,

What are your thoughts on injuries related to the use of automated
microtomes?  I have heard that the use of automated microtomes increases
the risk of injury and in most cases these are more severe.  May you
share your experience?  I do know of one case where the tech lost part
of his finger (luckily he was able to have it re-attached and the finger
was saved).  How many labs out there have used automated microtomes and
have reverted back to manual microtomes for safety reasons?  Does safety
take priority over ergonomic reasons?

Thanks in advance for your reply,
Milton
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