[Automation and application of robotics in the pathology laboratory].

Journal: Der Pathologe
Published Date:

Abstract

Over the last 20 years, numerous technical innovations have been introduced to the histopathology laboratory, providing tools for improved standardization and occupational safety. Digital tracking serves as a backbone accompanying the workflow from labeling cassettes and slides to the final steps of preparation of whole slide images and archiving blocks and sections. Multifunctional devices eliminated time consuming manual work prone to mistakes and loss of materials. At present, collaborative robots take over manual work that was considered to be exclusive to humans. The advent of these new technologies is expected to ameliorate the increasing staffing shortage in the laboratory and on the side of histopathologists as well.

Authors

  • Hermann Herbst
    Fachbereich Pathologie, Klinikum Neukölln, Vivantes Netzwerk für Gesundheit GmbH, Rudower Str. 48, 12351, Berlin, Deutschland. hermann.herbst@vivantes.de.
  • Thomas Rüdiger
    Pathologisches Institut, Städtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, Karlsruhe, Deutschland.
  • Constantin Hofmann
    wbk Institut für Produktionstechnik, Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT), Karlsruhe, Deutschland.