[Histonet] method of using agar for an embedding tool

[patsy ruegg]

I use a product for Richard Allan called Histogel to do this.  I tried
making my own agar but it was a hassle, this gel comes in tubes, you put the
tube in the microwave (I put the tube in a beaker of water), heat it til it
is liquid, I then use a transfer pipette to pull some out to fill a
cryomold, let it sit at RT or even on a ice pack, it sets up slowly allowing
you to orient the sample.  The gel with the oriented sample can then be
processed maintaining the orientation.  I use this to embed mouse bile ducts
on end, don't know what I would do without it.
Patsy

Patsy Ruegg, HT(ASCP)QIHC
IHCtech
12635 Montview Blvd. #216
Aurora, CO 80010
720-859-4060
fax 720-859-4110
pruegg <@t> ihctech.net
www.ihctech.net 

-----Original Message-----
From: histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
[mailto:histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Edmondson
David (RBV) NHS Christie Tr
Sent: Saturday, December 17, 2005 4:09 AM
To: Vickroy, Jim
Cc: Histonet (E-mail 2)
Subject: RE: [Histonet] method of using agar for an embedding tool

There was a report in the Journal of Med Lab Tech, in the 70s that described
use of agar to embedd small bits, 
Cut the end off plastic syringes to reveal the whole bore. 
Clip or otherwise mount the syringe upright and pull back to leave say 3mm
above the plunger.
2% agar, meleted in a microwave for 20 secs. 
Pipette in agar
Orient tissue
Allow to cool
syringe depressed and block come out 
Ready to go in a cassette
Bob's your uncle

If you would like the reference then RSVP
David
Christie Hospital
Manchester UK

-----Original Message-----
From: histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
[mailto:histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Vickroy,
Jim
Sent: 15 December 2005 20:50
To: histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
Subject: [Histonet] method of using agar for an embedding tool


 

Has anyone used agar at the embedding stations to help orient small
specimens?  I am told by my new pathology assistant that this would
prevent the embedders from having to reorient them at the embedding
center?  If you have could someone send me a procedure?  Please
disregard the spelling errors in the last email.  Obviously spell check
should have been used.

 

James R. Vickroy

Supervisor - MMC Surgical Pathology

217-788-4046

 



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