Description

Davidson's fixative (sometimes called Hartmann's fixative) is a rapid fixative. It is particularly useful for preparing tumors, bone marrow specimens, gynecologic material, fatty breast, and medical biopsies. It may be used for testicularbiopsies and for overnight fixation of fat containing lymph nodes. In addition, Davidson Solution is the preferred fixative for whole eyes, which provides optimal tissue preservation while avoiding retinal detachment.

Storage: RT

Store in closed container (plastic or glass) to prevent evaporation.

Protocol

1. Use about 100 ml for bigger objects or several small specimens. Place specimen in the solution immediately after extraction. (A gauze pad should be used to keep floating objects submerged if necessary or inconsistent fixation will occur.)

2. Remain specimen in the solution for 1 -2 days. Important note: Fixation of small specimens is rapid. Exposure to the fixative should be limited to 24 hours (tissue may be transferred to neutral buffered formalin or 70% alcohol for storage).

3. The specimen then is taken out of the solution and placed either in formalin or 70% ethanol. Optional : To make very solid specimen (such as eyes) easier to cut, incubate in 70% ethanol for a day, transfer to 90% ethanol for a day and finally to 100% ethanol for a day.

Safety precautions:

1. Wear safety glasses, a lab coat, and gloves.

2. Prepare in area with adequate ventilation and away from heat or open flame.