Patent ID: 7547538
Filing Date: 2009-06-16
Classification: B01L,G01N

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for continuous processing of tissue specimens comprising: (a) a microwave processor unit which (i) fixes and dehydrates tissue specimens with a non-aqueous solution in a first vessel, (ii) agitates the non-aqueous solution, and (iii) heats the non-aqueous solution with microwave energy to produce processed tissue specimens; and a first source for the non-aqueous solution which is fluidly coupled to the first vessel; and (b) an impregnator unit which (i) impregnates processed tissue specimens with a wax solution in a second vessel and (ii) heats the wax solution under less than atmospheric pressure to produce processed and impregnated tissue specimens; and a second source for the wax solution which is fluidly coupled to the second vessel.