Used & Refurbished Leica Cryostats

Leica cryostats are designed for sectioning a wide range of tissue samples, serving various applications in histology and research. This includes routine tissue for general examination, biopsies for rapid diagnostic pathology (like assessing tumor margins) and tissues prepared for molecular analysis (preserving RNA/DNA or studying protein localization).

They are also essential for preclinical and animal studies using model organisms. Leica cryostats effectively handle diverse tissue types, from general samples to more challenging fatty tissues (which may require specific blade chilling) and sensitive embryonic tissues, ensuring precise sections for both research and clinical needs.

Choosing the correct cryostat temperature is crucial and highly dependent on the tissue type. Routine sectioning often occurs between -15°C and -25°C. For example, fatty tissues typically require colder temperatures and a chilled blade to remain firm, while brain tissue may need warmer settings (-9°C to -19°C). If too cold, tissue can shatter — if too warm, it becomes soft and difficult to section cleanly. Leica cryostats offer precise temperature control, allowing researchers to optimize conditions for each specific sample.

Yes, Leica cryostats are specifically designed and widely used for frozen-section pathology procedures. Models like the Leica CM1850-3-1 are basic clinical cryostat machines used in Diagnostic Histopathology to rapidly assess malignancy in biopsies and guide surgeons during operations. These are direct applications of frozen-section pathology, where quick tissue analysis is crucial for immediate clinical decisions.

The difference between manual and motorized sectioning on Leica cryostats lies in how the tissue sample is advanced and cut:

• Manual sectioning: The user manually controls the sectioning process by turning a handwheel. This advances the specimen towards the blade and executes the cut.
• Motorized sectioning: This process is automated. The cryostat's motorized microtome automatically advances the specimen and performs the cut.

Motorized sectioning is particularly beneficial for high-volume work, as it frees up lab time and helps ensure greater consistency in section thickness and quality than manual methods.

Leica cryostat microtomes are compatible with a range of blade types, primarily disposable blades and reusable knives. Disposable options include low-profile, high-profile and premium diagnostic blades like the Leica DB80 series and tungsten carbide blades, each suited for different tissue types and sectioning precision. Reusable knives offer another option. Specific blade and knife holders are utilized to accommodate these various cutting tools.

To determine if a specimen disc or cryo chuck fits your Leica cryostat, always consult the instruction manual or product specifications for your specific cryostat model. These documents will list the exact compatible sizes and part numbers, as accessories are model-specific due to design integration with the cryostat's object head.