Method and apparatus for handling tissue samples

摘要

A tissue handling apparatus is provided comprising a support and a locator, for processing and embedding tissue samples. The support and cover form a chamber, within which a tissue sample is oriented prior to processing. After processing, the tissue sample within the chamber is embedded and the locator is removed, leaving the tissue sample correctly oriented in embedding material, mounted to a support, ready for microtoming.

主权项

1. A method of handling a tissue sample comprising:
applying an adhesive to a tissue locator of a tissue handling apparatus, the tissue locator including an upper surface and a lower surface, the tissue locator including a plurality of keying elements comprising apertures extending from the tissue locator upper surface into the tissue locator lower surface, wherein said apertures assist the adhesion of a tissue sample to the upper surface of the locator, wherein the apertures comprise a tapered cross-sectional profile from the tissue locator upper surface towards the tissue locator lower surface, wherein the cross-section of an aperture at the tissue locator upper surface is smaller than a cross-section of the same aperture in the tissue locator, wherein the adhesive is applied so as to gather in the apertures to form a key, placing a tissue sample on the tissue locator, orienting the tissue sample with respect to the tissue locator using the adhesive, wherein the adhesive gathers in the apertures to form a key and mechanically assist in preventing the tissue from moving, and applying a tissue handling procedure to the tissue sample in an oriented and located position.