Innovation in Precision Cryoembedding
Addressing the need for speed and precision when processing high volumes of frozen sections
| 2 min read
sponsored by Pathology Innovations LLC
The faster and more efficiently a user can execute a frozen section, whilst minimizing artifacts, the faster they can respond with a diagnosis, leading to better patient outcomes. The Peters Precision Cryoembedding System, by Pathology Innovations, is a combination of simple techniques and an apparatus for embedding tissues for frozen sections. Used by thousands of laboratory medicine professionals globally, it allows a level of control and predictability that can surpass even formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue.
Samples are embedded directly into a stainless steel well bar, then covered with an embedding medium and a cryostat chuck. An over-chuck freezing block aids in decreasing tissue freeze time and contributes to even leveling of the chuck with respect to the deep margin of the tissue.
Trusted techniques
- Face down cryoembedding – Rather than standing tissue in solidifying paraffin, tissue is adhered flat to the base of a freezing well. The adhesive property of freezing steel allows precise positioning of tissues, as shown in the meticulously laid sesame seeds and flower petals to the right.
- Frozen block cryoembedding – Freezing tissue in a block of embedding medium prior to cutting helps transform tiny specimens into large ones and flimsy soft tissues into firm easy-to-cut specimens. Rubbery, curled tissues are straightened, and torn or perforated samples made whole again.
- Paper embedding – Tissues are transferred to the well floor on a small portion of lens paper wetted with embedding medium, which allows for precise, flat embedding of the most delicate tissues or complex arrangements of tissues. Great for Mohs Surgery.
Speed and precision
With a freezing time of 20 to 60 seconds, multiple samples are handled quickly with the Peters Precision Cryoembedding System. Flat or on-edge embedding allows precise and predictable orientation, with reduced tissue wastage. Liquid samples are easily embedded, with no crush artifact caused by heat extractor weight, and minute samples are embedded in the same plane. The easy-to-learn system requires few cryostat adjustments, is comfortably performed on a shelf inside most cryostats or can easily be removed to embed at eye level.
The Peters Precision Cryoembedding System was developed by pathologists, for pathologists and has been adopted by thousands of labs worldwide because it’s fast, precise, and easy to learn.
Embedding 8 Small Pieces of Tissue using the precision cryoembedding system - watch here
