Improving Interdisciplinary Communication and Pathology Reporting for Head and Neck Cancer Resections: 3D...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Pathology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Surgical pathology reports are crucial for head and neck cancer patient management.
• Effective communication of margin status in complex resections is vital for all clinicians.
• Previous work demonstrated the utility of 3D scanning for margin communication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test the hypothesis that gaps in understanding exist regarding head and neck resection pathology reports.
• To introduce a newly designed permanent pathology report template to improve documentation of intraoperative margin mapping and supplemental margin extent.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional exploratory study using human-centered design evaluated existing pathology reports.
• Surveys were administered to pathologists, surgeons, and oncologists across US medical institutions.
• The study incorporated 3D specimen/defect scans and annotated radiographic images into the redesigned template.

Main Results:

• Survey results revealed significant confusion regarding supplemental margin status (60%) and final margin clarity (43%).
• Respondents also expressed uncertainty about the extent of intraoperatively harvested supplemental margins (43%).
• A new template was designed and used to compile 61 reports over 12 months.

Conclusions:

• The redesigned pathology report provides detailed visual and anatomical information on margin findings.
• It clarifies the location and size of supplemental margins, reconciling frozen and permanent section results.
• Annotated radiographic images aid clinicians in understanding surgical actions and planning adjuvant radiation therapy.