Laboratory Test Directory

Synonym: Frozen

CPT4 Code: 88331, 88332

Test Includes: Gross and microscopic examination with diagnosis

Applies To: Tissue removed in surgery for STAT diagnosis

Lab: Surgical Pathology

Request Form: Request for Intra-Operative Consultation Form and Surgical Pathology Laboratory Tissue Consultation Requisition Form 86 and patient's medical chart

Collection: Surgical excision

Storage Instructions: Collect in a clean container labeled with the patient's first and last names, unit history number and specimen identification.

Causes for Rejection: Insufficient identification, incomplete forms, fixative added to sample, contaminated container.

Availability: Call extension 22855 when the frozen section sample is ready to be picked up by pathology personnel, or deliver to Surgical Pathology Laboratory, Room 2.186, John Sealy Annex, Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM. Also available after hours, on weekends and holidays by on-call staff.

Turnaround Time: 20 minutes per sample

Special Instructions:

• Submit FRESH only. Absolutely no fixative or saline
• Patient's chart is required
• Contact Surgical Pathology when frozen section is pending and/or specimen requires opening.
• Surgical Pathology fellow/resident is available for intra-operative consultation.

Specimen: Any tissue, except bone. Lymph node for metastatic disease or to identify tissue; but not for lymphoma diagnosis.

Container: Clean container of sufficient size to support the tissue.

How to Order: Submit specimen for frozen section with patient's medical chart and Request for Intra-Operative Consultation Form and completed Surgical Pathology Laboratory Tissue Consultation Requisition Form 86 to Surgical Pathology Laboratory, Room 2.186, John Sealy Annex.