Abstract
Background: The current standard of documenting and communicating frozen section margin results is inefficient. We present a novel method of generating 3D digital models of gross tumor specimens to more clearly visualize histopathological margin results. Methods: Fifty-five head and neck specimens were scanned and virtually “inked” using 3D software. These 3D specimen maps were displayed in the operating room to provide the surgeon with a real-time specimen-to-defect relationship by which further resections could be guided. Results: Margin results were reported within an average of 34 min using the proposed workflow. The scanner rendered accurate models of specimens that exceeded 3.0 × 3.0 × 3.0 cm. Critical specimen features to consider were size, color, textural complexity, and the presence of discernible anatomic landmarks. Conclusions: Optical 3D scanning technology can improve the quality of head and neck margin documentation and the efficiency with which results are communicated between the pathologist and surgeon.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 10-21 |
Number of pages | 12 |
Journal | Head and Neck |
Volume | 45 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jan 2023 |
Keywords
- 3D scanning
- frozen section
- head and neck cancer
- intraoperative consultation
- margins