SOP FOR SAMPLE EXAMINATION MANAGEMENT: PARAFFIN EMBEDDING OF TISSUES

Sample Examination Management: Paraffin Embedding of Tissues

1.0 Purpose

To establish a standardized procedure for the paraffin embedding of all processed tissues in the Histopathology Lab.

2.0 Scope

This SOP applies to all tissue samples processed in the laboratory. It provides guidance to technicians on the proper embedding procedure.

3.0 Introduction

The purpose of tissue processing is to embed tissue samples in a solid medium that is firm enough to support the tissue and provide sufficient rigidity for cutting thin sections, yet soft enough to prevent damage to the knife or tissues. Paraffin wax is the most commonly used embedding material for routine histology. The tissue must undergo several preparatory steps before embedding in paraffin wax:

                                                    


- Completion of fixation.

- Thorough dehydration to remove all water and aqueous fixative from the tissue.

- Clearing with a substance compatible with both the dehydrating agent and the embedding medium.

- Wax impregnation.

- Final embedding in paraffin.

4.0 Principle

Processed tissue samples are embedded in paraffin wax, which provides the necessary support and rigidity for thin sectioning while being soft enough to avoid damaging cutting tools or the tissue itself.

5.0 Analytical Measuring Range and Limit of Detection

Not applicable.

6.0 Responsibility

- Technical Staff

- Pathologist

7.0 Abbreviations

- NI: Not Indicated

8.0 Requirements

- Paraffin Wax: 58-62°C

- Instrumentation and Software:

  - Forceps

  - Scalpel

  - Paraffin Embedding Station: Leica EG1150H, EG1150C

- Disposables:

  - Embedding Rings

  - Embedding Molds

- Stationery:

  - Marker Pen

 9.0 Precautions

All operations should be performed quickly to prevent premature solidification of the paraffin wax.

 10.0 Limitations & Interferences

Not applicable. 

11.0 Documentation

Maintain the following records:

- Block Entry Register

- Temperature Logs

 12.0 Instructions

 12.1 Pre-Analytical Steps

- 12.1.1 None.

 12.2 Analytical Steps: Embedding with Embedding Station

- 12.2.1 Set the paraffin reservoir temperature to 65°C.

- 12.2.2 Open the cassettes containing processed tissue and label an embedding ring with the sample number using a marker pen.

- 12.2.3 Place the embedding mold under the paraffin wax dispenser and fill it with molten wax.

- 12.2.4 Use heated forceps to transfer the processed tissue from the cassette to the embedding mold, positioning the tissue with the cutting surface facing down.

- 12.2.5 Transfer the mold with the tissue to the cold plate to start cooling.

- 12.2.6 Secure the pre-labeled embedding ring over the mold.

- 12.2.7 Refill the mold with molten wax up to the rim.

- 12.2.8 Place the mold back on the cold plate for final solidification.

- 12.2.9 Once the wax has set, remove the mold from the embedding ring.

- 12.2.10 The tissue embedded in wax is now ready for sectioning.

- 12.2.11 Maintain a daily temperature log of the embedding station.

- 12.2.12 In case of a temporary breakdown of the embedding station, manual wax pouring can be done. If the cold plate fails, blocks can be cooled on ice or in a refrigerator.

 12.3 Quality Control and Assurance

- 12.3.1 Not applicable.

 12.4 Storage of Samples

- 12.4.1 Retain paraffin blocks for 10 years at room temperature.

 13.0 Reference Range

Not applicable.

 14.0 Critical Value

Not applicable.

 15.0 Reporting of Results and Interpretation

Not applicable.

 16.0 Contingency Plan

In case of reagent shortages, manpower issues, or equipment breakdown, manual embedding can be performed as follows:

 - 16.1 Melt paraffin wax in a kettle.

- 16.2 Open the cassettes containing processed tissue and label an embedding ring with the sample number using a marker pen.

- 16.3 Pour the melted paraffin wax into the embedding mold.

- 16.4 Slightly warm the forceps, then transfer the tissue from the cassette to the mold, positioning it with the cutting surface facing down.

- 16.5 Secure the pre-labeled embedding ring over the mold and fill with melted wax up to the rim.

- 16.6 Allow the wax to set, forming a thin film on the surface.

- 16.7 Cool the mold containing the tissue in wax.

- 16.8 Once the wax has set, remove the mold from the embedding ring.

- 16.9 The embedded tissue is now ready for sectioning.

  17.0 References

- Bancroft, J.D. *Theory and Practice of Histological Techniques*, Fourth Edition.


                                                             END OF THE DOCUMENT

You may like to read these links: 
SHARE

Owner

Hi. I’m Writer of Researchsop.com. ’ ’ Please share these SOPs to all concern pharma people for their development. I like to fullfill the need of curious people. These things inspire me to make things looks better.

  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
    Blogger Comment
    Facebook Comment

0 comments:

Post a Comment