Automated paraffin embedding of tissue samples significantly reduces overall workflow time in routine pathology practice

Objective. Automated paraffin embedding (AE) offers a solution to the operator-dependent variability and time demands manual embedding (ME), but comparative data are limited. Methods. We quantitatively assessed AE versus ME using 186 endoscopic biopsies, 106 needle biopsies, and 62 transurethral resections, recording the time (seconds, s) required for preparation, embedding, trimming, and sectioning. Results. AE substantially reduced embedding time (5 s for all sample types) compared with ME (43 s for endoscopic biopsies, 66.5 s for needle biopsies, and 105 s for transurethral samples), and it allowed laboratory technicians to perform other tasks concurrently. AE also shortened total time: 150.2 s (AE) vs. 250.4 s (ME) for endoscopic biopsies, 176.9 s (AE) vs. 324.2 s (ME) for needle biopsies, and 149.5 s (AE) vs. 335 s (ME) for transurethral resections. Conclusions. These real-world data provide quantitative evidence of AE-related time savings in daily routine activity, supporting its role in workflow automation and standardization in pathology units.