Digital pathology: what are the benefits?
Digital pathology, also referred to as whole slide imaging, is a sub-field of pathology, in which tissue specimens are digitized with a scanner before being examined. Biopsy or sample collection techniques, laboratory workflow and final reporting with treatment decisions remain largely unchanged, but the slide review phase of the pathology process happens in a digital way using a display and viewing software, in addition to or in combination with a microscope.
1) Efficiency and speed
Digitization opens many new possibilities for slide handling and archiving. They can be stored and shared online instead of having to be transported. This reduces costs, risks, and time spent on cases.
2) Easy case documentation
Digital files make digital annotations possible, which can be shown or hidden at the pathologist’s will. These annotations can be side remarks about the case or specific notations on the image itself. They are linked to the digital file but don’t change the integrity of the source image itself.
3) Flexible telepathology
With the right displays and viewing software, a digital slide can be opened and viewed in multiple places at any time. This means that organizations can outsource work to specialized facilities. A digital workflow also clears the way for pathology staff to work at home or elsewhere.
Learn more about what a digital pathology workflow entails.
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