Rapid decalcification technique using tissue floatation bath (TFB) in a tertiary care oncology centre

Abstract

Background: Decalcification of bone is a very important procedure in pathology especially in an oncology set up for proper staging, chemotherapy response or even in diagnosis of tumors. Objectives- To evaluate the use of tissue floatation bath (TFB) for rapid decalcification of mandibulectomy specimens in an oncology setup. Materials and Methods: Bony specimens received at pathology department were sliced using bone saw and then placed in 10% formalin at 45 0 C for 4 hours. These sections were then kept overnight in 10% nitric acid at 45 0 C in TFB for decalcification. Decalcification was checked manually next day morning and if decalcification is complete, and then the tissue transferred to tissue processor for routine tissue processing. Results: Decalcification in tissue floatation bath takes approximately 18-20 hours with better cytomorphological details as compared to routine decalcification process which takes around 7-8 days for complete decalcification. Conclusion: Tissue floatation bath is a common instrument available in all laboratories performing histopathological examination. Staining quality is comparable and time required for decalcification is improved as compared to routine decalcification technique. It can be used as an alternative to the more expensive microwave technique which requires additional instrument and space. To the best of our knowledge this is the first study using tissue floatation bath for rapid decalcification process. Keywords: Routine decalcification, Rapid Decalcification, Tissue floatation bath, Bone, Mandibulectomy