Mikrotom

Mikrotom, or microtome, is a precision instrument used to cut very thin slices of specimens for microscopic examination. It is essential in histology and pathology for preparing tissue sections and in materials science for studying small solid samples. The device enables researchers to obtain consistently thin sections that can be mounted on slides and stained for imaging.

Most microtomes are designed to cut paraffin-embedded biological tissue, though specialized models exist for frozen sections and resin-embedded specimens. A typical microtome includes a stable frame, a knife or blade holder, a specimen block holder, and a mechanism to advance the specimen in precise increments. The blade is fixed at a defined angle, and the specimen is moved toward the blade either manually or by a motorized drive. Cryomicrotomes operate at low temperatures to preserve certain tissues, while ultramicrotomes, used for electron microscopy, produce much thinner sections with diamond or ultra-sharp knives.

Preparation of sections usually involves fixing and dehydrating the tissue, embedding in paraffin wax or resin, trimming to expose the area of interest, and then sectioning. The resulting slices, typically 2–10 micrometers thick for paraffin sections, are mounted on slides and stained to reveal cellular and tissue structures. Frozen sections are thicker and allow rapid diagnostic evaluation.

Common issues in microtomy include knife chatter, compression, and wrinkling, which can be mitigated by selecting appropriate blade material and sharpness, adjusting cutting speed, and ensuring proper alignment. Regular maintenance, cleaning, and blade replacement are essential for reliable performance.