Frozen Section (Intra-operative) SOP

Purpose

To outline the procedure for performing frozen section analysis during intra-operative consultations to provide rapid diagnostic information.

Scope

This SOP applies to all personnel involved in the frozen section process.

Responsibilities

• Pathologist: Review and interpret frozen sections.
• Laboratory Technician: Prepare and process tissue samples for frozen section analysis.
• Quality Manager: Ensure compliance with SOP and quality standards.

Materials & equipment

• Cryostat
• Microtome blades
• Tissue embedding medium
• Cryogenic gloves
• Personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Labeling materials

Procedure

1. Obtain the specimen from the surgical team.
2. Label the specimen clearly with patient information.
3. Prepare the cryostat by ensuring it is set to the appropriate temperature.
4. Embed the specimen in the tissue embedding medium.
5. Section the specimen using the microtome.
6. Mount the sections on glass slides and label them appropriately.
7. Stain the sections with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) or other appropriate stains.
8. Examine the sections under a microscope for preliminary diagnosis.
9. Communicate findings to the surgical team promptly.
10. Document the results in the laboratory information system.

Records

• Frozen section log
• Pathology report
• Quality control records

Safety

• Wear appropriate PPE including gloves and lab coat.
• Ensure proper handling of cryostat to prevent frostbite.
• Follow waste disposal protocols for biological materials.