Are you in need of a whole slide image (WSI) scanner for your laboratory or organization? Are you looking for the right choice? There are many whole slide image (WSI) scanners available in the market. However, choosing the right digital pathology slide scanner can be a challenging task. The WSI scanner is an expensive and long-lasting investment, so it is important to make the right choice. In this blog, we help you define your digital pathology and slide scanning needs, to ensure that you choose the best scanning solution for your pathology lab. With the right scanner, you can increase productivity, accuracy, and efficiency in your lab.
Here are the points to keep in mind before purchasing whole slide image (WSI) scanners:
1. Demand for scanning services: Evaluate the demand for slide scanning services within your organization or lab and determine whether it warrants the investment in a whole slide scanner.
2. Expected throughput: Determine the expected number of slides that need to be scanned per day or week to ensure that the scanner can meet your throughput requirements.
3. Targeted use of the scanner: Identify the specific use cases for the scanner, both current and future, to ensure that it meets your needs. Define uses of scanners such as uses for histopathology, frozen section, cytology, brightfield or immunofluorescence imaging, and diagnostic or scientific research purposes.
4. Required magnification: Determine the required magnification for scanning slides, such as 20x, 40x, 100x, or other, depending on the use case
5. Type of scanner required: Decide on the loading mechanism needed, whether an automatic/continuous scanner or manual will suffice.
6. Resolution: It is the level of detail that a scanner can capture in an image. The higher the resolution, the more detail you can see in the image. This is an important factor to consider, especially when analyzing small structures or features. However, higher-resolution images also require more storage space and can take longer to process
7. Type of scanner required: Automatic/continuous loading or manual loading functionality
8. Image quality: This is an essential factor to consider when choosing a slide scanner. The quality of the images you produce can affect the accuracy of your diagnoses. A scanner that produces high-quality images with accurate color reproduction and sharpness is essential. Look for scanners with advanced features such as autofocus, color correction, and image stitching.
9. Compatibility with existing infrastructure: Consider whether the scanner and its accompanying software are compatible with your existing infrastructure.
10. Size of pathology glass slides: Consider the size of the pathology glass slides that need to be scanned and ensure that the scanner can accommodate them.
11. Special features and functionality: Identify any special features or functionality that you require, such as image analysis, image management, or integration with other software.
12. User-oriented functionality: Evaluate the user-oriented functionality of the scanner, such as ease of use and accessibility, to ensure that it can be used effectively by lab personnel
13. Lab space and infrastructure: Ensure that you have enough space in your lab to accommodate the scanner and that your lab infrastructure can support it.
14. Cost and budget: Consider the cost of the scanner, including any additional fees for maintenance, software, and support. Ensure it gets fit into your current budget.
15. Technical support: Technical support is an important factor to consider when choosing a slide scanner. You want a manufacturer that provides comprehensive technical support to help you troubleshoot issues and keep your scanner running smoothly. Look for manufacturers/vendors that offer training, maintenance, and repair services.
16. Long-term investment goals: Consider your long-term investment goals and how the scanner fits into your overall lab strategy. Choose the right whole slide scanner according to your need.
Benefits of selecting the right scanner:
Compatibility: Selecting a scanner that is compatible with your operating system can save you the hassle of dealing with technical issues and compatibility problems.
Time-saving: A high-quality scanner can save you time by scanning multiple slides simultaneously and producing high-quality results.
Improved productivity: A faster scanner can improve your productivity by allowing you to scan more slides in less time.
Better image quality: A scanner with high image quality can produce better and more accurate scans, preserving the quality of your original slides.
Cost-effectiveness: Choosing the right scanner can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for re-scanning and producing higher-quality results.
In conclusion, choosing the right whole-image slide scanner is a crucial decision that can impact the quality, speed, and productivity of your scanning process. By considering the factors discussed above, you can select a scanner that meets your needs and produces high-quality results.
Choose with Confidence: Receive the PathPixel Questionnaire for a Smart Selection of Your WSI (Whole Slide Imaging) Scanner. Email at pathpixelnet@gmail.coml
Blog Author Blog Editor
Trupti Sonawane, MD Snehal Sonawane, MD
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