Provide a valuable resource to your clients or customers by linking to this resource page. Just place the following link on your website.
A microtome is a laboratory instrument used to cut very thin sections of tissue or other specimens for microscopic examination. It is commonly used in pathology, histology, research, and diagnostic laboratories. The specimen is usually fixed, embedded, and mounted before sectioning. The thin slices made by a microtome can be placed on slides, stained, and examined under a microscope.
read more about microtome ...A microtome is used to prepare tissue sections thin enough for light microscopy or other microscopic analysis. It helps laboratories examine cells, tissue structure, disease changes, margins, and biopsy samples. Microtomes are important in pathology because tissue often needs to be cut evenly before staining and diagnosis. They are also used in research settings for animal, plant, and material samples.
The microtome holds the specimen block and moves it toward a sharp blade in controlled steps. Each pass cuts a thin section at a set thickness, often measured in micrometers. The section is collected, floated or flattened if needed, and placed on a slide. Cutting quality depends on blade sharpness, specimen preparation, block temperature, section thickness, and operator technique.
Rotary microtomes are common in histology laboratories and are often used for paraffin-embedded tissue. Cryostats include a microtome inside a cold chamber and are used to cut frozen tissue sections. Sliding, sledge, vibrating, and ultramicrotomes are used for specific specimen types or research needs. The best type depends on tissue hardness, desired section thickness, and laboratory workflow.
Microtomes use extremely sharp blades, so cut prevention is a major safety concern. The blade guard should be used when the instrument is not actively cutting, and blades should be changed or disposed of carefully. Regular cleaning, lubrication, calibration, and blade inspection help keep sectioning consistent. Poor technique or dull blades can damage specimens and increase injury risk.
No. Microtomes are laboratory instruments used on tissue samples or specimens, not directly on patients.
The thickness depends on the instrument and specimen type. Many routine histology sections are only a few micrometers thick.
A cryostat is a refrigerated chamber that contains a microtome for cutting frozen tissue. A standard microtome usually cuts embedded tissue at room temperature.
Yes. Microtome blades are very sharp and can cause serious cuts. Blade guards, safe handling, and proper disposal are important.
Histology, Staining. StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557663/. Date Accessed June 18, 2026.
Mastering the art of sectioning: a comprehensive guide to tissue microtomy for histology. PubMed Central. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12414758/. Date Accessed June 18, 2026.
Microtomes and Cryostats. Cornell University Environment, Health and Safety. https://ehs.cornell.edu/research-safety/biosafety-biosecurity/biological-safety-manuals-and-other-documents/microtomes-and-cryostats. Date Accessed June 18, 2026.
Rotary Microtome and Cryostat Safety Guidelines. Boston University Environmental Health and Safety. https://www.bu.edu/ehs/laboratory-safety-home/laboratory-safety-programs-services/lsc-toolkit/lab-resources/rotary-microtome-and-cryostat-safety-guidelines/. Date Accessed June 18, 2026.
Microtomy and Paraffin Section Preparation. Leica Biosystems. https://www.leicabiosystems.com/knowledge-pathway/steps-to-better-microtomy-flotation-section-drying/. Date Accessed June 18, 2026.