Sectioning and Microtomy Flashcards
Excess wax is cut off from the block to expose the tissue surface in preparation for actual section cutting.
Trimming
A process by which tissue is cut into uniformly thin slices or sections on a precision instrument called a “microtome” using extremely fine steel blades.
Sectioning
cutting engine of the histopath lab
microtome
Means by which tissues can be sectioned and attached to the surface so that examination by microscopy can take place.
Microtomy
What microtome knife is designed for ultrathin section microtome examined under an electron microscope?
Diamond edged knife
What microtome knife is designed for rotary microtomes?
Biconcave knife
What is the most commonly used microtome?
Rotary microtome
What microtome knife is used for sliding and rocking, celloidin embedded microtome and one side is flat the other side is concave?
Plane concave knife
- removal of gross nicks and blemishes, and grinding the cutting edge of the knife to stone
- lubrication: xylene, mineral oil, clove oil, paraffin, and soapy water
- “Edge first” heel to toe, 20-30 times, abrasives (powdered aluminum oxide).
Honing
- removal of the burr
- “Edge last” Toe to heel, 40-120 double strokes
- Horse leather (use castor oil to prevent rusting)
Stropping
Identify the material for honing.
- Best manual sharpening
Belgium Yellow
Identify the material for honing.
- more polishing effect than Belgium Yellow
Arkansas
Identify the material for honing.
- much coarser for badly nicked knives
Fine carborundum
Identify the material for honing.
- use fiamanthine for final polishing
Plate glass hone
Identify the material for honing.
- glass disc or wheel driven by electric motor
Machine hone
