Histology blades are primarily used in a device known as a microtome. The microtome holds the blade and the tissue sample, allowing for precise slicing of the tissue into thin sections. The process involves the following steps:
1. Embedding: The tissue is embedded in a solid medium, usually paraffin wax, to provide support during cutting. 2. Sectioning: The embedded tissue is placed in the microtome, and the blade is used to slice the tissue into thin sections, typically 5-10 micrometers thick. 3. Mounting: The sections are then placed on microscope slides for staining and examination.
