Paraffin sections with lengthwise splits are the result of which blade tilt condition?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not Enough Information
• D. Only When Blade Dull

Answer: (B)

Lengthwise splits are not caused by how the blade is tilted. Blade tilt changes the angle of the cut and tends to produce issues like uneven beveling or surface irregularities, not cracks running along the length of the section. Longitudinal splits reflect brittle failure of the tissue-paraffin composite, usually from factors such as under-infiltration, over-dehydration, or a paraffin block that’s too cold or hard. The remedy is proper fixation and infiltration, allowing the block to reach appropriate cutting temperature, and using a sharp blade with correct sectioning conditions.