[Histonet] processing times for needle biopsies -using sponges

[Patricia Valente]

 I would like to hear about VIP processing times other folks use for prostate biopsies using biopsy sponges.
We currently run an average of 60 cassettes( some days can be 120) all with 2 sponges.- (would prefer to use mesh window cassettes but pathologists prefer the flat and complete sections we (usually) get more easily with the sponges)
We rotate 1 of each reagent type ( 95%,100%, Xylene,wax) on processor after each run - this does seem to help with carryover problem.
Run is 3hrs 45 min. long
Every once in a while we get  few nasty hard fragmented cores and other times under dehydration.- These cannot all be blamed on collection or grossing technique ( though we have tried).
Seems like processing is uneven.(PV is on)
Does anyone use longer times with so many sponges?
Has any one tried something to space out cassettes( maybe an empty cassette in-between full ones) to get better contact with solutions?
Any other ideas??
Thanks

Pat Valente
San Antonio TX