OSMT (Ontario Society of Medical Technologists) Practice Exam

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Which type of microtome is mostly used for routine microtomy?

  1. a. base sledge

  2. b. rocking

  3. c. sliding

  4. d. rotary

The correct answer is: d. rotary

The rotary microtome is the most commonly used instrument for routine microtomy, primarily due to its efficiency and ease of use. It allows for precise control over the thickness of the sections being cut, which is crucial for obtaining high-quality tissue samples for microscopic examination. This type of microtome operates by rotating the specimen on a horizontal plane while the blade remains fixed, allowing for consistent and uniform slices. The design of the rotary microtome also facilitates the handling of a wide range of tissue types and sizes, making it suitable for various laboratory settings. In general, the rotary microtome's straightforward mechanism, coupled with its capacity to produce smooth and even sections, makes it a favored choice among medical technologists engaged in histology and pathology work.