Paraffin sectioning is the most widely used method in routine histology. It is not only used to observe the morphological structure of normal cell tissue, but also the main method used by pathology and forensic science to study, observe and judge the morphological changes of cell tissue. However, in the process of operation, there will always be many problems. How can we solve them?
1. The slice is stuck to the slicer and is difficult to remove
● cause: there is static electricity when slicing, which often occurs in winter or dry climate.
● solution: humidifier can be used. To increase the moisture in the air and reduce the electrostatic effect.
2. Uneven slice thickness
● cause: ① the micro motion part of the slice fails and the gear jumps. ② The wax block is too large and hard, and the blade vibrates when it rotates.
● solution: ① repair the failure part of the slicer and adjust the screw. Lubricate the parts with engine oil, and ask professional technicians to adjust the slicer if necessary. ② If the wax block is too large, pay attention to the size of the material in the future. The wax block is too hard to be soaked in water, and then dehydrated and embedded again.
3. The slice is bent and cannot form a straight band
● cause: ① the wax block is not parallel up and down or left and right sides. ② The wax block is not parallel to the knife edge of the slicer. ③ The shape of tissue block is irregular. ④ The sharpness of the slicer is inconsistent everywhere.
● solution: ① repeatedly flatten and symmetry the four sides of the wax block. ② Adjust the wax block holder so that it is parallel to the slicer. ③ When trimming the tissue block, pay attention to trim neatly. ④ Move the slicer and change the position of the knife edge.
4. The slice has too many wrinkles and cannot be fully unfolded
● cause: ① paraffin is too soft or room temperature is too high. ② There is residual paraffin on the slicer, and the knife edge is not clean. ③ Insufficient wax soaking time or dehydration and transparency of tissue. ④ The slicer is not sharp.
● solution: ① the wax block can be frozen in the refrigerator and sliced. And when slicing, freeze or change wax with ice while slicing. If the room temperature is too high, turn on the air conditioner to reduce the room temperature. ② If the slicer is not clean, wipe the edge of the knife with cotton dipped with a little xylene. ③ If the tissue is not waxed enough, the waxing process can be repeated. ④ Sharpen the slicer before slicing.
