Intraoperative frozen section (IFS) consultation and rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) are vital diagnostic pathology tools, enabling real-time decision-making that directly impacts patient outcomes. However, pathology departments are under unprecedented strain – the global shortage of pathologists is growing, with many nearing retirement age and fewer new pathologists entering the field. The result is overextended professionals, delayed diagnoses, and potential declines in the quality of patient care.
These shortages are putting a significant strain on the systems that support both IFS and ROSE. Traditionally, both IFS and ROSE have required a pathologist’s physical presence at the site of the procedure. But in the face of rising cancer rates, increasing diagnostic complexity and reductions in the number of trained pathologists, this model is increasingly unsustainable
These pressures highlight a critical need for more efficient, scalable solutions that allow labs to do more work with fewer resources without compromising diagnostic quality. Telepathology – enabled by modern whole slide imaging (WSI) and live-view technology – offers a transformative solution. By adopting telepathology, pathology teams can support IFS and ROSE remotely, improving case throughput, minimizing delays, and maximizing pathologist productivity.
