The problem shown in the image could have been prevented by which action?

• A. Allowing the slide to drain well before drying at 60C
• B. Reembedding the tissue
• C. Retracting the block holder shaft
• D. Moving to an unused section of the blade

Answer: (A)

Moisture on the slide during a hot drying step can create steam under the tissue. That steam can cause the section to lift, wrinkle, or peel away from the slide as it dries, producing artifacts. Allowing the slide to drain well first removes surface water, so when you heat it at 60°C there’s less steam generation and the tissue stays flat and firmly attached. This simple step helps preserve morphology and adhesion during the drying process.

The other choices don’t address this moisture-heat interaction. Reembedding is used when embedding problems or section loss require a full reprocess, not a drying artifact. Retracting the block holder shaft is a mechanical adjustment for cutting, not for drying artifacts. Moving to an unused section of the blade targets sectioning quality due to blade wear, not the drying step.