Dahl-Chase Diagnostics Services (DCDS) routinely sends nerve biopsy specimens to the University of Vermont Medical Center pathology department for analysis. DCDS prepares the sample for shipment. Below is a list of instructions for the surgeon:


Scheduling:

1. DCDS should be notified a minimum of 72 hours prior to the surgery.
2. The surgical pathology department should be called at 941-8252. The following should be provided:
   • Name of the patient
   • Surgeon
   • Hospital
   • Date and time of the surgery
3. Hospitals (not in Bangor) must schedule a courier from Uniship (848-7546) to retrieve the specimen.
4. Bangor hospitals may call 941-8252 to notify the surgical pathology department that they are delivering the muscle biopsy specimen to the lab.

Specimen collection:

1. A 3 cm portion of nerve should be collected.
2. The specimen may be placed in saline.
3. The vial containing the sample should be surrounded by wet ice.
4. The specimen should be transported to DCDS as soon as possible.