[Histonet] Microtome alignment

[Paula Sicurello]

A while back I remember someone suggestion something like a right angle
device that carpenters use.  It's basically just a piece of metal that is a
right angle triangle that you put up against the chuck and on the knife
mount.  Then you align the chuck so it is a a right angle to the knife
mount.

It looks like this:        l\
                                l  \
                                l    \   This is my best attempt at computer
drawing.
                                l __ \

I don't thing they cost very much, much less that $700.


Paula  :-)



On Tue, Aug 17, 2010 at 8:05 PM, WILLIAM DESALVO
<wdesalvo.cac <@t> hotmail.com>wrote:

>
> Since you have older microtomes, I suggest using an "alignment block" at
> each microtome instead of purchasing the alignment tools. The tools can be
> found on the web  ttp://www.grale.com.au/products/view/804 , but they can
> be expensive (as much as $700.00 each). If you have more than one
> manufacturer for your microtomes, you will need to purchase one for each
> brand.
>
> Try using your largest embedding mold and make a blank block for each
> microtome. This can bee done first thing each morning. Use the block to
> align the chuck each morning before cutting. If you see drift throughout the
> day, add one or more checks during the day. Making a fresh block each day
> gives you a good standard and keeps the variation down.
>
> I also suggest you look at your embedding method and make sure you have a
> standardized procedure for all tissue types for orientation of tissue and
> exact placement in the mold. Embed your tissue on one plane with as little
> paraffin as possible on the bottom of the mold. Reducing variation at
> embedding will greatly assist you in reducing the amount of "facing"
> required to start producing sections and also reduce the need to align the
> chuck to the block/tissue.
>
> William DeSalvo, B.S., HTL(ASCP)
> Chair, NSH QCC
> Prodcution Manager, Sonora Quest Laboratories
>
>
>
>
> > From: Sharon.Davis-Devine <@t> carle.com
> > To: histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
> > Date: Tue, 17 Aug 2010 14:16:26 -0500
> > Subject: [Histonet] Microtome alignment
> >
> > We are having a continuing issue of too much tissue being cut off when
> facing off a block for recuts. We have tried a couple of different methods
> for aligning our microtomes without much success. Does anyone out there have
> any advice on how to properly align them and what tool to use? Also, how
> often do you perform this re-alignment? The majority of our microtomes are
> older so more wear and tear and things move out of place more often. Any
> help or suggestions will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
> >
> > Sharon Davis-Devine, CT (ASCP)
> > Cytology-Histology Supervisor
> > Carle Foundation Hospital
> > Laboratory and Pathology Services
> > 611 West Park Street
> > Urbana, Illinois 61801
> > 217-383-3572
> > sharon.davis-devine <@t> carle.com
> >
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-- 
Paula Sicurello
6 of 6
Duke Healthcare System EM Lab