Name of the Procedure:

Microdissection (ie, sample preparation of microscopically identified target); manual

Summary

Microdissection is a meticulous technique where specific cells or tissues are carefully separated from surrounding material using a microscope. This is done manually with fine instruments to ensure precision.

Purpose

The procedure is often used to prepare samples for genetic, microscopic, or molecular analysis. It targets specific cells, like cancer cells, to study them individually. The goal is to obtain pure samples for accurate diagnostic or research purposes.

Indications

• Suspected cancer or tumor analysis
• Genetic and molecular studies
• Infectious disease identification in specific cells
• Any condition where precise cell analysis is required

Preparation

Patients typically do not need to prepare specifically for microdissection, as it involves tissue samples already collected via biopsy or surgery. No special fasting or medication adjustments are required.

Procedure Description

1. A sample is collected, usually via a biopsy or during surgery.
2. The sample is placed under a microscope.
3. Using very fine tools like tiny scalpels or needles, the target cells or tissue are manually isolated.
4. The isolated sample is then prepared for further analysis, such as staining or genetic sequencing.

Tools used: Microscope, fine scalpels, needles, and other precise instruments. Anesthesia: Not applicable for the microdissection itself, but initial sample collection may involve local or general anesthesia.

Duration

Microdissection can take from a few minutes to several hours, depending on sample size and complexity.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a laboratory or pathology department within a hospital or research facility.

Personnel

• Pathologists
• Lab technicians or scientists
• (Occasionally) Surgeons, if microdissection is part of a surgical process

Risks and Complications

• Damage to the sample during preparation, which could affect diagnostic accuracy.
• Very minimal risk to the patient as the procedure is performed on collected samples.

Benefits

• Provides highly accurate and specific tissue samples for analysis.
• Can lead to precise diagnosis and better-targeted treatment plans. Benefits are often realized once analysis results are returned, typically within a few days to weeks.

Recovery

As microdissection is performed on pre-collected samples, there is no recovery process related to the microdissection itself. Recovery would pertain to the initial sample collection method (e.g., biopsy recovery advice).

Alternatives

• Laser capture microdissection: Uses lasers for more precision, higher cost, and complexity.
• Bulk tissue analysis: Less specific, may include non-target cells, leading to less accurate results.

Patient Experience

The patient is generally not present during microdissection. Experience would be related to the biopsy or surgery for sample collection, including any postoperative pain or care.

Pain management: Standard post-biopsy or post-surgical care, including pain medications and wound care.