Patent ID: 8288168

Claim:
A method for tissue processing of one or more tissue specimens using only two different chemical compositions and an apparatus comprising: a microwave unit comprised of (i) a first reaction chamber with an interior geometry comprised of a whispering gallery to achieve uniform distribution of microwave energy and heating of the interior, (ii) a single non-aqueous admixture which is optionally contained within the first reaction chamber, (iii) a source of microwave energy which is transmitted into the first reaction chamber to heat the non-aqueous admixture, and (iv) an agitator within the first reaction chamber to promote chemical exchange between the non-aqueous admixture and the tissue specimen and a vacuum unit comprised of (i) a second reaction chamber, (ii) a single wax solution which is optionally contained within the second reaction chamber, (iii) a source of radiant energy which is transmitted into the second reaction chamber to heat the wax solution, and (iv) a vacuum pump connected to the second reaction chamber; the method comprising: (a) initially impregnating a tissue specimen with the single non-aqueous admixture comprised of (i) fixing, (ii) dehydrating, and (iii) clearing functions which is agitated and heated; and then (b) substantially impregnating the tissue specimen with the single wax solution which is heated and also under less than atmospheric pressure.