The standard procedure for applying VVG stain involves several steps:
1. Fixation: Tissue samples are fixed, usually in formalin, to preserve their structure. 2. Deparaffinization and Rehydration: Sections are deparaffinized using xylene and rehydrated through a series of graded alcohols. 3. Staining with Verhoeff’s Solution: Sections are stained in Verhoeff’s solution, which stains elastic fibers black. 4. Differentiation: The sections are differentiated in ferric chloride solution to remove excess dye, leaving only the elastic fibers stained. 5. Counterstaining with Van Gieson’s Solution: Sections are then counterstained with Van Gieson’s solution, which stains collagen yellow and other tissue elements red. 6. Dehydration and Mounting: Finally, sections are dehydrated through graded alcohols, cleared in xylene, and mounted for microscopic examination.
