Virtual Tumor Mapping: A New Standard for Surgeon-Pathologist Collaboration in Treating Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

The histopathological assessment is critical in the comprehensive treatment process for patients diagnosed with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). A detailed and precise specimen characterization is essential to facilitate effective surgeon-pathologist communication. In response to this need, a user-friendly virtual communication protocol utilizing a 3D scanner has been developed. This study involved 50 patients with OSCC, whose resected tumors were directly scanned in the operating room and subsequently annotated and characterized using available software. The direct application of annotations and descriptions onto the virtual tumor specimens significantly enhanced the quantity and accuracy of information conveyed to the pathologist. The proposed solution's repeatability and standardized approach make integration into routine clinical practice feasible, thereby establishing a potential new standard in the field.