[Histonet] Microtome alignment

[joelle weaver]

Yes, these used to be available from Newcomer supply, but I think they are now de-funked. Try a google search perhaps?
Joelle 
 
> Date: Wed, 18 Aug 2010 07:00:23 -0400
> From: patpxs <@t> gmail.com
> To: wdesalvo.cac <@t> hotmail.com
> Subject: Re: [Histonet] Microtome alignment
> CC: histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
> 
> 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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> >
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> 
> 
> 
> -- 
> Paula Sicurello
> 6 of 6
> Duke Healthcare System EM Lab
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