First experience using a plate for fixing histological specimens of parotid salivary gland tumors

Relevance. Accurately assessing all resection margins during the removal of parotid salivary gland tumors is crucial due to the risk of recurrence and the potential for benign processes to become malignant over time. Macroscopic specimens obtained during these surgeries are sent to the pathology laboratory in containers filled with fixative solution. During fixation, the soft tissue fragments, typically round in shape, can alter their configuration because of the tissue's heterogeneity. This can create challenges for the pathologist in properly orienting the surgical specimen, which in turn complicates the precise evaluation of the resection margins. Materials and methods. To address this issue, the "Plate for fixing histological specimens of parotid salivary gland tumors" (patented) was developed. Twenty cases of its clinical use were analyzed: the surgical material (parotid gland tissue containing a tumor) was sent to the pathology department, fixed on this plate to preserve its original anatomical orientation. A macroscopic and histological evaluation of the neoplasms was then carried out, with special attention given to the accurate identification of all resection margins. In all 20 clinical cases, the use of this invention improved the convenience for the pathologist in handling the excised tissue block by standardizing the method and clearly identifying the resection margins. Conclusion. The application of this invention enhances the accuracy of marking and evaluating the resection margins in parotid gland tumors.