embedding

Question 1

what are some components of the embedding station

Answer 1

• paraffin reservoir
• hot surface
• cold surface
• paraffin dispensing
• room should be well lit and venetilated

Question 2

the purpose of embedding is to

Answer 2

provide external support for the tissues

Question 3

what are some important notes about the embedding medium

Answer 3

paraffin wax or other resin should ideally match the processing infiltration step
- enables long term storage
- inert: won’t effect staining or damage the tissue

Question 4

microtomy is easier when

Answer 4

tissues are angles and centred

Question 5

routine embedding

Answer 5

• cut side down

Question 6

what is important about tubular tissues

Answer 6

must show the lumen

Question 7

tissues with layers

Answer 7

must see the layers

Question 8

dye markings

Answer 8

need to be visible

Question 9

multiple pieces

Answer 9

must be organized

Question 10

errors in embedding can result from

Answer 10

improper embedding
tissue falling out during microtomy
incorrect orientation
becoming too thin to cut

Question 11

how are errors corrected

Answer 11

by re embedding the block

Question 12

failure to notice errors can result in

Answer 12

permanent tissue loss

Question 13

how to re embed a tissue sample

Answer 13

• place block in appropriately sized mold
  -gently melting all wax to liquid form
• obtaining new mold
• embed tissue as normal