Which smear technique is good for viscous samples and does not damage fragile cells?

The starfish smear technique is particularly well-suited for viscous samples and is designed to preserve the integrity of fragile cells. This technique involves spreading the sample in a way that resembles the shape of a starfish, which allows for gentle manipulation. By using this method, the cells are applied to the slide in a manner that minimizes shear forces, thus preventing damage to delicate cellular structures. It is especially effective for samples that might otherwise be challenging to handle, ensuring that accurate cytological assessment can be performed without compromising cell viability or morphology. This makes the starfish smear a preferred choice when dealing with viscous specimens, ensuring both quality and reliability in cytological analysis.