Current usage and future trends in gross digital photography in Canada

Abstract

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to assess the current usage, utilization and future direction of digital photography of gross surgical specimens in pathology laboratories across Canada.MethodsAn online survey consisting of 23 multiple choice and free-text questions regarding gross digital photography was sent out to via email to laboratory staff across Canada involved in gross dissection of surgical specimens.ResultsSixty surveys were returned with representation from most of the provinces. Results showed that gross digital photography is utilized at most institutions (90.0%) and the primary users of the technology are Pathologists (88.0%), Pathologists’ Assistants (54.0%) and Pathology residents (50.0%). Most respondents felt that there is a definite need for routine digital imaging of gross surgical specimens in their practice (80.0%). The top two applications for gross digital photography are for documentation of interesting/ complex cases (98.0%) and for teaching purposes (84.0%). The main limitations identified by the survey group are storage space (42.5%) and security issues (40.0%). Respondents indicated that future applications of gross digital photography mostly include teaching (96.6%), presentation at tumour boards/ clinical rounds (89.8%), medico-legal documentation (72.9%) and usage for consultation purposes (69.5%).ConclusionsThe results of this survey indicate that pathology staff across Canada currently utilizes gross digital images for regular documentation and educational reasons. They also show that the technology will be needed for future applications in teaching, consultation and medico-legal purposes.

Performance of residents using digital images versus glass slides on certification examination in anatomical pathology: a mixed methods pilot study

“…The lack of understanding of the nature and limitations of digital pathology has been highlighted as an important challenge in previous studies. 8,12 The residents who underwent the digital portion of the examination faced a number of challenges. They had issues with uploading slides and changing resolutions.…”

“…There are, however, challenges experienced with digital pathology in general, including quality of images, 11 ease of navigation and the unfamiliarity of many pathologists and pathology residents with the technology. 1,12 Another concern is the authenticity of digital images and the ability to alter their details. 11,13,14 Residency training in anatomical pathology in Canada is a 5-year program, with 4 years devoted to pathology.…”

Imaging and image management: A survey on current outlook and awareness in pathology practice

“…about the applications of photography in pathology, the most common application was for educational purposes followed by medical recording and consultation services. [ 2 ]…”

Three-Dimensional Pathology Specimen Modeling Using “Structure-From-Motion” Photogrammetry: A Powerful New Tool for Surgical Pathology

“…The role of gross macroscopic specimen photography in pathology is well established. [6][7][8] During the past decade this process has been simplified by the development of digital cameras, leading to its widespread use in surgical pathology. [8][9][10] Concurrently, techniques of using digital images to generate 3D models have been explored, [1][2][3] and this technology now presents opportunities for the medical realm.…”

“…[6][7][8] During the past decade this process has been simplified by the development of digital cameras, leading to its widespread use in surgical pathology. [8][9][10] Concurrently, techniques of using digital images to generate 3D models have been explored, [1][2][3] and this technology now presents opportunities for the medical realm. 4,5,11 The use of photogrammetry has been explored in the field of anatomy [12][13][14][15][16] and has also been used in forensic pathology.…”