Application of the ultrasonic oscillation flotation method in paraffin section preparation

Objective: To enhance the quality and efficiency of paraffin-embedded pathological section preparation, this study aims to investigate the potential benefits of utilizing the ultrasound oscillation flotation method (UOFM) for section spreading. Methods: Specimens of various tissue types were processed using both the conventional and UOFM for section spreading. The presence of wrinkles or damage during this process was assessed through HE staining, with the number of wrinkles being quantified. The optimal frequency and power density for section spreading were determined by evaluating the qualified rate of sections at various frequencies and power densities, and the average time required for section spreading was compared between the two methods. Results: The results showed that pathological sections of various tissue types rarely showed paraffin dissolution and section breaking after the UOFM. HE staining also revealed that the group exhibited significantly reduced wrinkling and a more intact tissue structure compared with the conventional method group ( p <0.05). Statistical analysis further indicated that the highest rate of section qualification was achieved when employing a frequency of 33 kHz with a power density of 60% or a frequency of 40 kHz with a power density of 75% ( p <0.05). Additionally, the mean duration of section spreading in the group utilizing the UOFM was significantly reduced ( p <0.05). Conclusions: The UOFM effectively maintains the structural integrity of paraffin pathological sections, significantly enhancing the quality of sections and optimizing section preparation efficiency.