METHOD FOR AUTOMATED PROCESSING AND EMBEDDING OF TISSUE SAMPLES

摘要

An automated machine for handling and embedding tissue samples contained on microtome sectionable supports. The machine includes an input member configured to hold a plurality of the microtome sectionable supports prior to a tissue embedding operation. An output member is configured to hold a plurality of the microtome sectionable supports after the tissue embedding operation. A cooling unit is configured to hold at least one of the microtome sectionable supports during the tissue embedding operation. A motorized carrier assembly is mounted for movement and configured to hold at least one of the microtome sectionable supports. The carrier assembly moves the support from the input member to the cooling unit and, finally, to the output member. A dispensing device dispenses an embedding material onto the microtome sectionable support and at least one tissue sample carried by the microtome sectionable support during the embedding operation.

主权项

1. A method of processing tissue samples while the tissue samples are on tissue sample supports, and embedding the tissue samples on the sample supports, comprising:
loading a plurality of the tissue sample supports, each holding a tissue sample thereon, into an input member, placing the input member with the loaded tissue sample supports in a tissue processor, processing the tissue samples in the tissue processor to remove fluid from the tissue samples, introducing liquid embedding material into respective molds holding the tissue sample supports with the processed tissue samples while the input member is in an automated embedder, hardening the liquid embedding material in each mold with the tissue sample and associated tissue sample support, and removing the tissue sample supports and embedded tissue samples from the molds.