Digital Pathology/Telepathology


Digital Pathology | Telepathology is enhancing Clinical Workflow

We have begun a new phase in our diagnostic services by incorporating telepathology as a key component. Currently, our pathologists use remote live microscopy, using the Mikroscan system, for interpretation of frozen sections at both Bellevue Medical Center and Village Pointe.  This allows the pathologist to remain on campus and improve overall workflow efficiency.  Soon, remote frozen section interpretation will be further improved with the addition of Leica Biosystems CS2 WSI scanners.  With a scanner located in the main frozen room on campus, pathologists will be able to read frozen sections such as donor organ samples from home during non-business hours. The workflow for assessing adequacy of cytology specimens and kidney biopsies has also been improved by utilizing iPad technology in combination with an in-house designed microscope adaptor.  This allows the pathologist to visualize both cytology smears and kidney cores remotely both on campus and at regional medical centers. Implementation of digital pathology will also provide second opinion expertise when needed to our pathologists who are staffing remote locations, such as Kearney Regional Medical Center.  In addition, the department is excited to begin using digital WSI for primary diagnosis including full integration with our laboratory information system.  For this purpose, the department has acquired a Leica Biosystems GT450, their most advanced high throughput scanner.  

For further information on this initiative, please contact Ben Swanson, M.D., 402-559-4186.