Sectionable Tissue Matrix Tracking for Sample Orientation Preservation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tissue sample processing methods face challenges in maintaining the orientation and integrity of tissue samples during pathological procedures, and there is a need for efficient tracking and management of tissue samples throughout the processing workflow.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a tissue sample management system that includes a central network, medical professional system, and pathology lab system, utilizing a matrix with a sectionable code and measurement marks that are processed and correlated with patient identification information, ensuring accurate tracking and orientation preservation during pathological processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional tissue sample processing is used, then the tissue sample can be processed through chemical fixation and dehydration, but the original position and size information of the tissue sample is lost due to varying shrinkage rates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates measurement marks and sectionable codes on the matrix that create a reusable reference copy. This copy maintains the original position and size information through standardized markings that survive the processing steps, allowing the information to be read after the tissue sample has shrunk. The measurement marks act as a persistent reference frame that copies the spatial relationships without being affected by the tissue's shrinkage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by using a matrix material with controlled shrinkage characteristics. The matrix is designed to shrink at a predictable rate during processing, and measurement marks are placed at known initial positions. By changing the physical state of the matrix through controlled shrinkage while maintaining measurement references, the system preserves position information despite the dimensional changes occurring during fixation and dehydration.
2Device complexity
If manual labeling and tracking methods are used, then the process can be completed with simple equipment, but manual labeling errors and tracking difficulties occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual labeling and tracking mechanisms with an automated optical recognition system. Imaging devices capture images of the measurement marks and sectionable codes, and image processing systems automatically identify and track samples throughout the processing workflow. This substitution of mechanical/manual operations with optical and digital systems eliminates human error while maintaining relatively simple equipment requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The sectionable codes and measurement marks create a digital copy of the sample's identity and position information. These codes are imaged and processed digitally throughout the workflow, creating a persistent digital record that can be automatically correlated with patient information and processing steps, eliminating the need for complex manual tracking systems.
3Productivity
If tissue samples are processed without standardized references, then the processing steps can be performed quickly, but accurate pathological analysis becomes difficult due to lack of orientation information
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement marks and sectionable codes are placed on the matrix before the tissue sample processing begins. These references are established in advance at known positions and orientations, creating a pre-planned measurement framework that will survive the processing steps. This preliminary placement allows rapid processing without requiring complex references to be added during the workflow, as the measurement framework is already in place.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized measurement marks and sectionable codes create a persistent reference copy that maintains orientation and position information throughout processing. These references are designed to survive fixation, dehydration, and sectioning, providing an unchanging measurement framework that enables precise pathological analysis even when the tissue sample itself changes dimension.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables precise tracking and management of tissue samples, maintains the original orientation and integrity of the samples, and facilitates efficient communication and registration of data throughout the tissue sample processing workflow.
Implementation Method 1
The matrix is configured to exhibit a shrinkage rate substantially the same as a shrinkage rate of the tissue sample when subjected to a pathological process
Data Source
AI summary
Tissue sample management systems include a central network, a medical professional system, and a pathology lab system for processing a tissue sample in a matrix having a sectionable code. At least the pathology lab system includes at least one imaging device, and the central network is configured to process images from the at least one imaging device to identify and record at least the sectionable code of the matrix. Methods for tissue sample processing include providing a matrix having a sectionable code and measurement marks, the matrix for receiving a tissue sample, and identifying the sectionable code from an image taken of the tissue sample in the matrix. Tissue sample-receiving matrices include a sectionable alphanumeric code or bar code, a tissue sample receptacle, and measurement marks formed along a sidewall thereof. The matrices include one or more proteins and one or more lipids.