Fabrication of microscalpels by electrolysis of tungsten wire in a meniscus.
A simple technique has been devised for generating consistent microscalpel blades from tungsten wire for use in microdissections. Electrolysis of the tungsten wire held horizontally in contact with the extended, up-lifted meniscus of an aqueous solution of 1.0 N NaOH sculps the metal into a blade configuration with a very sharp cutting edge. These microscalpels are suitable for dissection of embryonic neural tissues.
Conrad
G W
GW
Division of Biology-Ackert Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506.
Bee
J A
JA
Roche
S M
SM
Teillet
M A
MA
D000468:Alkalies; D004210:Dissection / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004572:Electrolysis; D013677:Medical Laboratory Science; D012996:Solutions; D014414:Tungsten
D000468:Alkalies; D012996:Solutions; D014414:Tungsten