How Does the Thickness Adjustment Dial Work?
The dial is typically graduated in micrometers (µm), allowing the user to set the desired thickness of the tissue section. By rotating the dial, the distance that the blade advances into the tissue block can be finely adjusted. This ensures that sections are consistently cut to the exact thickness required, which is crucial for subsequent
staining and examination.
Quality of Sections: Uniform and precise thickness ensures that tissue sections are evenly stained and free from artifacts.
Diagnostic Accuracy: Consistent section thickness allows for accurate interpretation under a
microscope, aiding in reliable diagnosis.
Reproducibility: It ensures reproducibility of results, which is particularly important in research settings.
Paraffin-embedded tissues: Typically, sections are cut at 4-6 µm.
Frozen sections: Usually, sections are cut at 5-10 µm due to the softer nature of the tissue.
Special Stains: Certain stains may require different thicknesses, for instance,
immunohistochemistry often requires thinner sections (3-4 µm) for better antigen-antibody interactions.
Calibration: Regularly calibrate the dial to ensure accuracy.
Cleanliness: Keep the dial and surrounding areas clean to prevent debris from affecting precision.
Consistent Technique: Use a consistent technique when advancing the dial to avoid variability in section thickness.
Inconsistent Sections: Variability in section thickness can lead to uneven staining and difficulty in interpretation.
Artifacts: Incorrect thickness settings can introduce artifacts such as compression or tearing of the tissue.
Equipment Wear: Overuse or incorrect use of the dial can lead to mechanical wear, affecting the precision of the microtome or cryostat.
Conclusion
The thickness adjustment dial is an indispensable tool in histology that ensures the production of high-quality tissue sections. Understanding its function, proper use, and significance can greatly enhance the accuracy and reliability of histological analyses.
