Abstract
Aim: To find a medium to mark the surgical margins and orientation of complex specimens that is reliable, easy to use, safe and inexpensive. Methods: Several different paints, dyes and pigments were tested. A series of pigments supplied by SICPA Australia Pty Ltd, when fixed to the specimen in acetic formalin, was used on over 7000 complex specimens. Results: The pigments were easily visualised macroscopically on gross specimen and processed blocks and microscopically at the surgical margins. Review of early material confirmed its stability. Conclusion: These pigments fulfill all the criteria of being reliable, easy to use, inexpensive, safe and stable and have been used successfully in our department for 4 years.
