A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Three-Dimensional Presentation of Tumor Histopathology: A Model Using Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma




AuthorsKoivuholma Anne, Aro Katri, Mäkitie Antti, Salmi Mika, Mirtti Tuomas, Hagström Jaana, Atula Timo

PublisherMDPI AG

Publication year2021

JournalDiagnostics

Journal name in sourceDiagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)

Journal acronymDiagnostics (Basel)

Article number109

Volume11

Issue1

Number of pages9

ISSN2075-4418

eISSN2075-4418

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics11010109

Web address https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics11010109

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/51799053


Abstract
Medical imaging often presents objects in three-dimensional (3D) form to provide better visual understanding. In contrast, histopathology is typically presented as two-dimensional (2D). Our objective was to present the tumor dimensions in 3D by creating a 3D digital model of it and so demonstrate the location of the tumor and the histological slices within the surgical soft tissue resection specimen. We developed a novel method for modeling a tongue squamous cell carcinoma using commonly available instruments. We established our 3D-modeling method by recognizing and solving challenges that concern the selection of the direction of histological slices. Additional steps to standard handling included scanning the specimen prior to grossing and modeling the carcinoma, which required only a table scanner and modeling software. We present challenges and their solutions in modeling the resection specimen and its histological slices. We introduce a finished 3D model of a soft tissue resection specimen and the actual tumor as well as its histopathological grossing sites in 3D digital and printed form. Our novel method provides steps to create a digital model of soft tissue resection specimen and the tumor within. To our knowledge, this is the first attempt to present histopathological margins of a tongue tumor in 3D form, whereas previously, only 2D has been available. The creation of the 3D model does not call for predetermined grossing directions for the pathologist. In addition, it provides a crucial initiative to enhance oncological management. The method allows a better visual understanding of tumor margins, topography, and orientation. It thus provides a tool for an improved postoperative assessment and aids, for example, in the discussion of the need for additional surgery and adjuvant therapy.

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Last updated on 2024-26-11 at 22:42