3D Scanning of Surgical Specimens to Improve Communication Between Surgeon and Pathologist: A Head and Neck Pilot Study

This study investigated the use of 3D scanning of surgical specimens using structured light scanners (OptorLab and CronosDual) to enhance surgeon-pathologist communication.The testing on cadaver and maxillary cancer specimens aimed to optimize 3D model acquisition, with OptorLab showing superior speed and quality. Challenges included complex specimen geometry, varying surface reflectivity, and soft tissue instability. Despite these factors, the resulting 3D meshes effectively visualized surgical margins and key points. The study concluded that 3D scanning offers valuable, storable digital models with potential applications in clinical practice, education, and research, improving inter-team communication and pathological staging accuracy, though technical optimization is crucial.