US 4,752,347 A · Apparatus for preparing tissue sections

Abstract

A method and apparatus for preparing a tissue block for sectioning in a microtome includes positioning the tissue block on a platform. A vacuum-retracted membrane of plastic film material is used to draw an underside of the tissue block or specimen into planar contact with the platform. The user adjusts any peripheral edges of the tissue block that are not properly oriented so the underside is in a planar position. The tissue block is frozen on the platform once it is properly oriented. The membrane is subsequently peeled away from the platform and O.C.T. compound is applied to the tissue blocks. The O.C.T. compound after hardening and the tissue block are transferred to a second platform carried by a mounting device such that the tissue underside is exposed. The tissue specimen is ready for sectioning as part of the Mohs fresh tissue surgical technique.

Claims16

Dependent claims

An apparatus for preparing a tissue specimen for sectioning in a microtome or the like;

said apparatus comprising:
(a) a vacuum receptacle assembly having an interior chamber;
(b) a vacuum source operatively connected to said vacuum receptacle assembly for drawing air from said vacuum receptacle assembly chamber;
(c) a platform having a surface for receiving the specimen;
(d) said vacuum receptacle assembly having means for receiving and retaining said platform;
(e) a flexible membrane for covering said platform when said platform and specimen are retained by said vacuum receptacle assembly;
(f) sealing means for creating a seal between said membrane and said vacuum receptacle assembly, whereby upon activation of said vacuum source air is drawn from said vacuum receptacle assembly chamber;
and
(g) means for freezing the tissue specimen to said platform.

6 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Apparatus for preparing tissue sections

Life of this patent

Apparatus for preparing tissue sections

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims16