Reducing Waste in Histology
The Environmental Benefits of Multi-Cell Cassettes
Multi-cell (or compartmental) histology cassettes enable technicians to place multiple tissue samples into a single cassette, while keeping them physically separated. These samples are then processed simultaneously – from fixation through to microscopic examination. But why are an increasing number of histopathology labs opting for these multi-cell cassettes?
During routine sample collection, each sample obtained from a single patient is placed in an individual formalin filled pot. Utilising multi-cell cassettes at a later stage, during tissue processing, means that multiple samples from an individual can be stored in a single pot. These samples are then embedded in a single paraffin block, resulting in fewer sections and less microscope slides.
Take for example 6 samples from an individual patient…
Single Cell Cassette
6 sample pots
6 cassettes
3 sections required from each block
18 sections for mounting
18 microscope slides to stain and process
Multi-cell Cassette
1 sample pot
1 6-cell compartmental cassette
3 sections required from the single block
3 sections for mounting
3 microscope slides to stain and process
Improving Throughput and Consistency
Busy laboratories are able to improve efficiency by utilising multi-cell cassettes to simultaneously transfer, process, embed, cut and stain samples; reducing processing times and contributing to improved turnaround times. This parallel technique also ensures consistency of sample processing.
Minimising Waste and Going Green
Multi-cell cassette usage minimises waste from initial biopsy collection through to slide mounting and staining. Using less containers, cassettes and microscope slides, this simultaneous sample process reduces material waste, ultimately contributing to a more environmentally friendly lab.
Economic Alternative
With less materials needed to process samples outgoing costs are lowered.
Safety
By using a single formalin filled pot during sample collection, exposure to this hazardous chemical is reduced.
While multi-cell cassettes have a number of advantages, they are not appropriate for every scenario. In certain cases, it is important to ensure each sample is handled and processed individually. In addition, multi-cell cassettes are limited by sample size and their ability to facilitate precise tissue orientations. It’s important to consider tissue attributes before deciding which cassette to opt for.