The researchers found that standard pathology reports contained an average of six pages and 850 words, while 3D specimen map reports were condensed into a single page containing only 293 words on average.
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May 2024The time it takes to learn the technology, the space constraints, and the cost involved could be seen as limitations, but Fassler said that Vanderbilt uses a mobile 3D scanning cart to save space and maximize efficiency and has a scanner that’s relatively low cost at $2,300. They’re also developing a 3D and virtual mapping protocol to train team members quickly and efficiently on the method.
“Future directions of this work,” Fassler said, “include the impact of using printed 3D specimen maps to aid adjuvant radiotherapy treatment planning, as well as the use of QR codes at a virtual head and neck tumor board, where we would show these QR codes, and providers can scan them on their smartphone.”
Thomas R. Collins is a freelance medical writer based in Florida.