31 |
P a g e
G e n e r a l D a t a H e a l t h c a r e , I n c .
Problem
Description
Remedy
·
The section is curved or
damaged.
·
The wax is wedge shaped.
·
The embedded specimen is not
parallel with the cutting edge.
·
Trim the embedded specimen to
make the top line parallel with the
bottom line, and the width of the
embedded specimen must be
even.
·
Adjust the specimen clamping to
ensure the top line and the
bottom line of the embedded
specimen parallel with the cutting
edge.
The section is curved or
damaged.
·
The density of the paraffin is
uneven.
·
Other outside factors (light,
heat and ventilation affect the
temperature around the
embedded specimen).
·
Remove the uneven paraffin and
embed the specimen again.
·
Operate the microtome in a
temperature controlled
environment.
·
The section is extremely
compressed, wrinkled or
jammed together.
·
Blade edge is dull.
·
Specimen block is warming.
·
The inclined angle of the blade
is too small.
·
There is a buildup of paraffin
wax on the blade edge.
·
The wax is old or damaged.
·
Sharpen the blade, change the
blade or adjust the blade position
in horizontal orientation.
·
Cool down the embedded
specimen in an ice bath or apply
a
cryogen spray like TBS’
SHUR
Freeze
™, to instantly chill the
specimen block.
·
Increase the blade angle to avoid
the incline plane of the blade
holder in rubbing the embedded
specimen.
·
Use a cotton swab and a cleaning
solution to remove paraffin
buildup from the front and back of
the blade.
Use extreme caution
when cleaning the blade.
Personal injury may result
.
·
Change the paraffin, and embed
the specimen again.
