How to use a microtome?


Release time:

2025-01-10 10:21

Microtome is a commonly used laboratory equipment in biology, pathology and other fields, which is mainly used to cut tissue samples into thin slices for microscope observation. The following is a detailed introduction to the use of tissue slicer.

I. Preparation stage

1. Ensure that the microtome is clean, the surface is not stained, and the knives are sharp.
2. Prepare the required tools: microtome, blade, sample stage, sample holder, frozen tissue block, etc.
3. Fix the tissue block on the sample holder to ensure that the block is flat and easy to cut.

II. Operation Procedure

1. Turn on the microtome and adjust the position of the knife to ensure that it is sharp and safe.
2. Fix the sample clamp with the fixed tissue block on the sample table, and adjust the position of the tissue block so that it is aligned with the cutter.
3. Adjust the slice thickness according to the experimental needs. This can be done by rotating the adjuster or sliding the adjuster lever.
4. Start cutting. Gently push the sample table so that the tissue block is cut through the cutter. Be careful to keep stable during operation and avoid shaking.
5. During the cutting process, observe the quality of the slices. If the slices are uneven or appear broken, the position of the knife or the angle of the sample table needs to be adjusted.
6. Collect the slices. Slides can be used to gently collect the cut tissue sections, or transfer the sections to the freezing table for preservation.

III. Precautions

1. Make sure the equipment is well grounded before operation to avoid electric shock.
2. Keep both hands stable during operation and avoid shaking, so as not to affect the quality of the section.
3. During the cutting process, do not touch the cutter and tissue block to avoid injury.
4. After cutting, turn off the equipment, clean up the site, and ensure that the equipment is stored safely.
5. Maintain and service the equipment regularly to ensure stable performance.

IV. Maintenance and upkeep

1. Clean the surface and internal parts of the equipment regularly to keep the equipment clean.
2. regularly check the wear and tear of knives and replace the blades in time.
3. Regularly check the performance of the equipment to ensure the normal operation of the equipment.

In short, the correct use of microtome need to follow the above steps and precautions. Only by mastering the operation method can we ensure the quality of slicing and the safety of experiments at the same time. I hope the above content is helpful to you.

tissue slicer