Frozen section is the method of choice when paraffin processing may interfere with any downstream techniques. Common examples include Oil Red O staining for lipids (removed during paraffin processing) and antibodies whose epitopes are masked or destroyed by the ethanol and xylene and the heat involved in paraffin processing.
Frozen section is a valuable tool for the rapid preparation of slides from tissue for microscopic interpretation. Frozen section technique is used in a myriad of clinical and research settings. In surgical pathology, frozen sections are routinely used for rapid intraoperative diagnosis, providing guidance for our surgical colleagues. Numerous research applications rely on the frozen section technique to prepare microscopic slides utilizing a host of sophisticated morphologic, immunohistochemical and molecular methods.
Preparation of frozen sections is a complex technical process that requires the development of refined technical skills, as well as an understanding of the histology, microanatomy and pathology of the tissues being examined. Whether used for intraoperative consultation or in research, the results will depend on our ability to achieve a high-quality preparation.
The importance of frozen sections
Frozen sections have proven to yield very accurate results. However, permanent sections are still the most precise method. Unfortunately, permanent sections take 1-2 days to process, so it won't work when the patient is under anesthesia. However, the frozen section procedure is a great way to assist the patient further.
Advantages of frozen sections
The results of frozen sections lead to benefits for both surgeons and patients. Patients can avoid further complications and procedures if doctors remove all the infected tissue at one time.
- If more tissue is needed to make an accurate diagnosis, the surgeon is able to obtain an additional sample, avoiding a second operation.
- If the tissue is determined to be cancerous and is amenable to surgery, the mass can be removed at that time.
- If the tissue is determined to be benign (not cancerous), then the mass may not always need to be removed and the surgery can end.
- The frozen section can help ensure that the mass being removed is the intended tissue for removal.
- It can help ensure that the entire mass and its surrounding borders are removed.
- It allows for the collection of proper tissue samples for further scientific research.