Laboratory Test Directory

Synonym: Surgical

CPT4 Code: 88300-88309

Test Includes: Gross and microscopic examination and/or diagnosis.

Applies To: Large specimens surgically removed for treatment, repair purposes, or identification.

Lab: Surgical Pathology

Request Form: Surgical Pathology Laboratory Tissue Consultation Requisition Form 86

Collection: Surgical excision

Storage Instructions: See Special Instructions FIRST. Submit tissue in a container labeled with the patient's first and last names, unit history number, and specimen identification. Refrigeration recommended.

Causes For Rejection: Insufficient identification, incomplete request form (pink sheet), contaminated container

Availability: Deliver to Surgical Pathology Laboratory refrigerator that opens to the corridor, adjacent to room 2.186 John Sealy Annex.

Turnaround Time: Routine: 3 days; exception - specimens containing bone and those requiring special procedures

Special Instructions: Specimens which must be submitted FRESH to ensure proper processing:

• Lung resection specimens that need to be infused
• Complex GI resection in which the specimen needs to be opened and cleaned before it can be adequately fixed
• Thyroid in which the capsule is to be examined
• All tumor specimens which require examination of margins
• Tissue taken for flow cytometry and electron microscopy
• Complex and large resections in which the anatomical relationships must be preserved before fixing
• Request form must include ICD-9 code, physician's name, ID code, signature, clinical history and diagnosis.
• Muscle and nerve biopsies for diagnosis of neuromuscular disease.

Specimen: Tissue

Container: If submitted by surgery: Container of sufficient size to support the tissue.  If submitted from clinics: 4 oz containers, pre-filled with 10% formalin, may be obtained from Surgical Pathology laboratory, Room 2.186, John Sealy Annex.

How To Order: Submit specimen with proper form to Surgical Pathology Laboratory, Room 2.186, John Sealy Annex.

Reviewed Robert Stewart 6/22/12