Lec 4: Sectioning & Embedding Flashcards
Placing the tissue in the paraffin wax in a precisely arranged position
Embedding
Refers to the material used to infiltrate, support, and enclose specimens that will cut into thin sections.
Embedding media
Purpose of ice
- prevent paraffin crystal formation
- accelerate hardening
Types of Embedding Molds
- Pop-out hinge embedding mold
- Leuckhart’s embedding mold
- Compound embedding unit
- Plastic embedding rings & base mold
- Disposable embedding mold
The type of embedding mold we use in the laboratory.
Pop-out hinge embedding mold
- consists of two L-shaped strips of heavy brass/metal arranged on a flat metal plate
Leuckhart’s embedding mold
Advantages of Leuckhart’s Embedding Mold
- can adjust its size to the size of the specimen
- produces even blocks with parallel sides
Advantages of Leuckhart’s Embedding Mold
- can adjust its size to the size of the specimen
- produces even blocks with parallel sides
- made up of series of interlocking plates resting on a flat metal base, forming several compartments
Compound Embedding Unit
Compound Embedding Unit
1. Advantage
2. Disadvantage
- Embedding more specimens at a time
- Labels can be removed
- an automated embedding unit
- consists of a special stainless steel base mold fitted with a plastic embedding ring
Plastic embedding ring and base mold
Advantage of Plastic embedding ring and Base mold
The plastic embedding ring serves as a block holder during cutting
- peel away
- paper boat
- plastic ice trays
Disposable Embedding Mold
Temperature of Calibration for the Electric Paraffin Wax Dispenser
- 58 to 60°C
OR
- 2 to 5°C above the melting point of paraffin
Purpose of Paraffin Bath
To place the impregnated tissues before embedding