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Optimum slicing of radical prostatectomy specimens for correlation between histopathology and medical images

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International Journal of Computer Assisted Radiology and Surgery Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose

There is a need for methods which enable precise correlation of histologic sections with in vivo prostate images. Such methods would allow direct comparison between imaging features and functional or histopathological heterogeneity of tumors. Correlation would be particularly useful for validating the accuracy of imaging modalities, developing imaging techniques, assessing image-guided therapy, etc. An optimum prostate slicing method for accurate correlation between the histopathological and medical imaging planes in terms of section angle, thickness and level was sought.

Methods

Literature review (51 references from 1986–2009 were cited) was done on the various sectioning apparatus or techniques used to slice the prostate specimen for accurate correlation between histopathological data and medical imaging. Technology evaluation was performed with review and discussion of various methods used to section other organs and their possible applications for sectioning prostatectomy specimens.

Results

No consensus has been achieved on how the prostate should be dissected to achieve a good correlation. Various customized sectioning instruments and techniques working with different mechanism are used in different research institutes to improve the correlation. Some of the methods have convincingly shown significant potential for improving image-specimen correlation. However, the semisolid consistent property of prostate tissue and the lack of identifiable landmarks remain challenges to be overcome, especially for fresh prostate sectioning and microtomy without external fiducials.

Conclusions

A standardized optimum protocol to dissect prostatectomy specimens is needed for the validation of medical imaging modalities by histologic correlation. These standards can enhance disease management by improving the comparability between different modalities.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore

    Li Hong Chen & Wan Sing Ng

  2. Urology Center, Singapore General Hospital, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169610, Singapore

    Henry Ho, John Yuen & Chris Cheng

  3. Department of Pathology, Singapore General Hospital, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169610, Singapore

    Richie Lazaro

  4. Department of Oncologic Imaging, National Cancer Centre, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169610, Singapore

    Choon Hua Thng

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  1. Li Hong Chen
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  2. Henry Ho
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Correspondence to Li Hong Chen.

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Chen, L.H., Ho, H., Lazaro, R. et al. Optimum slicing of radical prostatectomy specimens for correlation between histopathology and medical images. Int J CARS 5, 471–487 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11548-010-0405-z

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11548-010-0405-z

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