High throughput slanted scanning whole slide imaging system for digital pathology

Abstract

In whole slide imaging (WSI), normally only a one layer imaging of the slide is performed. Autofocus at multiple positions is usually required. But defocus blur still exists due to tissue folding or specimen thickness. Repeated Z‐stack scan be applied here, which, however, is too time consuming. Here, a high throughput slanted scanning WSI system is reported. In this system, the slide surface was slanted 1° relative to the focal plane. Thus, the focal plane spanned multiple layers of the sample. By moving the slide, multi‐layer image data of the sample can be acquired simultaneously at a time frame comparable to conventional 1‐layer imaging. With image fusion, defocus blur can be avoided. High quality and fast imaging of both cytological and histological slide specimens was demonstrated without applying aberration correction. The system can be a highly efficient way for the application of WSI in digital pathology.

Delphi expert consensus for whole slide imaging in thyroid cytopathology

“…However, this process may lead to prolonged acquisition times and larger digital files. Alternative options include “slanted scanning” and “volumetric scanning.” Briefly, the former approach deals with slanting the slide surface 1 degree relative to the focal plane, concurrently spanning multiple layers, and then acquiring and fusing the digitised images to avoid defocus blur, ultimately obtaining high‐quality files in restricted amounts of time 21 . Similarly, the latter method (also called “deep‐focusing”), consists of capturing images with the best focus of the cellular material located in various planes and then assembling these images into a comprehensive, larger final composite file where all the optimised areas are gathered in a single plane 19 …”

“…ing high-quality files in restricted amounts of time. 21 Similarly, the latter method (also called "deep-focusing"), consists of capturing images with the best focus of the cellular material located in various planes and then assembling these images into a comprehensive, larger final composite file where all the optimised areas are gathered in a single plane. 19…”

Contemporary Whole Slide Imaging Devices and Their Applications within the Modern Pathology Department: A Selected Hardware Review

“…Advances in autofocusing capabilities that lead to increased accuracy and speed of scanning have been recently explored. [ 119 ] Enhancements in WSI color performance and multispectral imaging are also near upon the horizon. [ 44 87 96 ]…”