[Histonet] Prostate bx processing time and fixation time

[Putnam, Jodi]

Hi I have a question for everyone today. I have recently taken on prostate bx's as I have said in other postings. I had to adjust my processing time and think that's going much better. My question is, today at 10:45 am they are doing a prostate bx (12 specimens) on a patient and my pathologist would like it processed immediately upon receipt. I was wondering, with the size of the prostate biopsies, what is a standard fixation time prior to processing. I don't want to have the biopsy done at 10:45 and put them on the processor immediately for fear of them not being fixed. I am sure that the fixation time is not long as compared to my derm specimens, but what is a good standard to follow as far as fixation time on prostates prior to processing. Ideally this is to get the case out the same day but I don't want to process unfixed specimens and cause serious problems. I took out the formalin steps on the short processing run that I have set up on my Excelsior. Usually I receive the prostate case in the afternoon and gross it in, let is sit overnight and then run them as soon as I come in the next day. Any help would be appreciated. I do not want to cut corners and jeopardize specimen quality. So, what is the minimum time that you think is fair for fixation prior to me processing them today? It's Friday and I don't want to leave loose ends but also don't want to compromise the specimen quality. HELP!!!! :)
Thanks so much for all of the help and advise that everyone has given me. This site is wonderful and has helped me in so many ways.
I will anxiously await the replies. Its 9:43 am here so I have one hour to make a decision. :)
Happy Friday :) (I hope.......)
 
Jodi Putnam (HT,ASCP)
Graves Gilbert Clinic
Pathology Department
201 Park Street
Bowling Green, KY 42102
(270) 393-2728 (voicemail)
(270) 393-2795 
Fax : (270) 393-2736
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