Working at the microscope: analysis of the activities involved in diagnostic pathology

Rebecca Randell; Roy A Ruddle; Phil Quirke; Rhys G Thomas; Darren Treanor

doi:10.1111/j.1365-2559.2011.04090.x

Working at the microscope: analysis of the activities involved in diagnostic pathology

Histopathology. 2012 Feb;60(3):504-10. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2559.2011.04090.x. Epub 2011 Dec 16.

Authors

Rebecca Randell¹, Roy A Ruddle, Phil Quirke, Rhys G Thomas, Darren Treanor

Affiliation

¹ Pathology and Tumour Biology, Leeds Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK. r.randell@leeds.ac.uk

PMID: 22176210
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2559.2011.04090.x

Abstract

Aims: To study the current work practice of histopathologists to inform the design of digital microscopy systems.

Methods and results: Four gastrointestinal histopathologists were video-recorded as they undertook their routine work. Analysis of the video data shows a range of activities beyond viewing slides involved in reporting a case. There is much overlapping of activities, supported by the 'eyes free' nature of the pathologists' interaction with the microscope. The order and timing of activities varies according to consultant.

Conclusions: In order to support the work of pathologists adequately, digital microscopy systems need to provide support for a range of activities beyond viewing slides. Digital microscopy systems should support multitasking, while also providing flexibility so that pathologists can adapt their use of the technology to their own working patterns.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

Diagnostic Imaging / methods*
Eye Movements / physiology*
Humans
Microscopy / methods*
Pathology, Surgical / methods*
Task Performance and Analysis*