Biopath Automation, LLC

Sakura Finetek U.s.a., Inc.

Stephen P Whitlatch

Warren P Williamson, Iv

Thomas J Ward

Craig B Berky

Carlos A Saez

Warren P Williamson

Warren P Iv Williamson

An automated machine for handling and embedding tissue samples contained on microtome sectionable supports. The machine includes an input member configured to hold a plurality of the microtome sectionable supports prior to a tissue embedding operation. An output member is configured to hold a plurality of the microtome sectionable supports after the tissue embedding operation. A cooling unit is configured to hold at least one of the microtome sectionable supports during the tissue embedding operation. A motorized carrier assembly is mounted for movement and configured to hold at least one of the microtome sectionable supports. The carrier assembly moves the support from the input member to the cooling unit and, finally, to the output member. A dispensing device dispenses an embedding material onto the microtome sectionable support and at least one tissue sample carried by the microtome sectionable support during the embedding operation.

Method for automated processing and embedding of tissue samples

A method of staging a tissue sample cassette, including a cassette body and a lid, from an upper position in a frame used during a tissue embedding process to a lower position in the frame. The method comprises coupling the cassette with the frame such that the cassette is in the upper position and positively stopped at the upper position by first structure on a wall of the frame. The cassette is moved relative to the frame to the lower position by selectively engaging the cassette with a staging mechanism. An external force is applied to the cassette with the staging mechanism in a direction to move the cassette from the upper position toward the lower position. The cassette is retained in the lower position using second structure on the wall of the frame, such that the cassette is exposed for embedding the cassette in an embedding medium and subsequently slicing the tissue sample embedded in the embedding medium.

Method of staging a tissue sample cassette

A cassette for holding a tissue sample includes a body having a bottom wall and a plurality of side walls extending upwardly with respect to the bottom wall to define an interior space for receiving the tissue sample. A lid is configured to be received in the interior space, and the cassette is sectionable in a microtome. Sensing elements are associated with the body or lid and configured to allow an automated sensing system to determine at least one characteristic of the cassette. A flange extends along upper portions of at least two of the side walls and includes a plurality of holes. Other features are included to more effectively and efficiently manufacture and use the cassette.

Cassette for handling and holding tissue samples during processing, embedding and microtome procedures, and methods therefor

Tissue orientation devices include a perforated tissue support with at least one perforated channel for receiving a tissue sample, and a plurality of tabs configured to extend along and into the channel to retain the tissue sample during processing and embedding. Tissue orientation devices include elongated legs coupled together for holding one or more biopsy tissue samples therebetween. Associated methods include using the cassettes and orientation devices to hold and orient tissue samples for processing, embedding and microtome sectioning.

Method for orienting tissue samples on a microtome sectionable biopsy support

Tissue cassette for automated handling and embedding of tissue samples

The disclosure relates to a cassette, frame and mold for holding a tissue sample during an embedding and mircotoming process, and related methods. The cassette is sectionable in a microtome and includes a body with a bottom wall and a plurality of side walls. First and second side walls are generally V-shaped to present an apex of the 'V' to the microtome blade. A lid of the cassette is stiffer than the bottom wall of the cassette to assist with positioning the tissue sample. The side walls of the cassette are perforated so as to significantly reduce the amount of cassette material that must be cut by the microtome blade. In one embodiment, to additionally reduce blade wear the ribs on one side wall are offset lengthwise relative to the ribs on an opposite side wall. An upper flange of the cassette includes depressions configured to register with detents in the frame.

Cassette and embedding assembly for handling and holding tissue samples during processing, embedding and microtome procedures, staging devices therefor, and methods therefor

Microtome sectionable biopsy support for orienting tissue samples

Cassette and embedding assembly for handling and holding tissue samples during processing, embedding and microtome procedures, staging devices therefore, and methods therefor

Growing community of inventors

Cincinnati, OH, United States of America

Stephen P Whitlatch