FAQs

CLINICAL

What exactly does AdiPress^TM do?

AdiPress uses proprietary technology (Automated Compressive Filtration, or ACF) to physically separate adipose fat from lymph nodes. The result of ACF is a defatted tissue specimen containing lymph nodes and surrounding vasculature / connective tissue. This concentrated lymphatic tissue is captured in square wells in the specialized LymFilter™ containers that are perfectly sized for paraffin-embedding in standard cassettes that can then be prepared for standard microscopic analysis.

What type of tissue does it work with?

Any tissue where adipose fat is obscuring the identification of lymph nodes. Colon and rectum cases are great candidates for AdiPress due to the heightened significance of analyzing lymph nodes and the significant adipose fat that these specimens often contain.

Does AdiPress find lymph nodes?

AdiPress reduces the mass of the sample by up to 5x (i.e. 20% of the original mass). This filtration action removes adipose fat while preserving lymph nodes and surrounding connective tissue and vasculature. The filtered tissue is submitted in entirety. AdiPress does not identify individual lymph nodes via compressive filtration.

What is Census-Level Nodal Assessment?

Census-Level Nodal Assessment refers to the ability to submit all LNs contained in a tissue specimen for analysis.

How is Census-Level Nodal Assessment different from manual grossing?

Manual grossing for lymph nodes is the process of identifying individual lymph nodes through manual palpation, visual observation, and using hand tools such as forceps and scalpels. This approach is time-consuming and dependent on the skill and training of the Grosser.
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Using the AdiPress enables the Grosser to quickly shrink the tissue specimen to a manageable size while maintaining a reasonable number of glass slides. Because all lymph nodes contained within the tissue sample are submitted and processed, this allows for Census-Level Nodal Assessment, resulting in higher overall identification rates.

Does using AdiPress change the tissue morphology of the resected sample?

AdiPress is calibrated to preserve lymph node morphology while efficiently compressing the sample. Labs report clear morphology and slides that are easy to read due to the lack of adipose fat obscuring the lymph nodes. Photo examples are available on request - please reach out to sales@formapath.com for more information.

SALES & SUPPORT

Are AdiPress devices currently in production and available to labs?

Yes! Please send us an email at sales@formapath.com to get onto our production schedule.

How can I get AdiPress for my lab?

We’d love to discuss your lab’s needs for AdiPress! Please reach out to sales@formapath.com to get in contact with one of our team members directly to schedule a demo and discuss lease terms.

Is AdiPress the only thing I need in my lab for Census-Level Nodal Assessment?

AdiPress uses LymFilters™ and acetone to process each case. A starter pack of LymFilters and acetone will be included with initial delivery of AdiPress. Additional LymFilters can be purchased for a nominal cost.

Are the LymFilters™ reusable?

No, each LymFilter is single-use and is physically altered during the compression process. After processing a case, the LymFilters should be discarded.

How do I re-order the LymFilters?

You can order additional LymFilters by contacting your sales rep or emailing sales@formapath.com. LymFilters come with free ground shipping.

What fixative solutions are compatible with the Adipress?

LymFilters are validated to work with routine formalin fixed samples that undergo a secondary fixation in acetone.

Is a fixative provided with the LymFilter?

Yes, acetone is supplied with LymFilters.

How will my staff be trained on this device?

FormaPath’s expert technicians will conduct on-site, in-person training during the installation visit.

How is service and maintenance of AdiPress device covered?

Every leased device is bundled with an annual service plan. We will respond to service requests within 24 hrs (although likely much faster) and will fix or replace any defect that arises through normal use.

LAB INTEGRATION

Who uses the AdiPress in the lab and how do I integrate the device into our existing workflow?

Whomever was previously manually dissecting tissue specimens can continue to be in charge of this part of the process. The AdiPress is designed to be easy to use for lab staff of all experience levels. For more detailed examples of how labs are currently using the AdiPress, please reach out to sales@formapath.com.

How large is the AdiPress device?

The dimensions of AdiPress are 20in (H) x 12in (W) x 12in (D) [500mm (H) x 300mm (W) x 300mm (D)]. The device can easily sit on the existing lab bench.

What size tissue block does the LymFilter create?

2cm x 2cm x 3mm. This is designed to fit within a standard tissue cassette while leaving margin for proper processing and embedding. Other sizes for smaller and larger tissue specimens are in development.

Does using AdiPress change the tissue morphology of the resected sample?

How do these dense lymphatic specimens slice and stain? Are they easily interpreted?

Due to the sample being defatted, labs report efficient processing and staining. Pathologists report clean histology making lymph node identification and interpretation efficient. Photo examples are available on request - please reach out to sales@formapath.com for more information.

Is there a risk of contamination between cases?

A new LymFilter is required for each case, eliminating the risk of cross-contamination.

Can fresh (non-fixed) tissue be placed in the AdiPress?

No, compressing unfixed tissue risks damaging or rupturing the lymph nodes.

A member of our team will follow up shortly!

FAQs