A comparative usability assessment of computer input devices for navigating digital whole slide images

  • 0Houston Methodist Hospital, Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.

|

|

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Digital pathology adoption is growing, but efficient navigation is key. This study found that videogame controllers and specialized devices are preferred over standard mouse controls for whole slide image viewing.

Area Of Science

  • Digital Pathology
  • Medical Imaging
  • Human-Computer Interaction

Background

  • Digital pathology adoption is increasing globally.
  • Efficient navigation of whole slide images (WSIs) is crucial for digital pathology.
  • Current standard mouse controls may not be optimal for WSI navigation.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To evaluate the usability of various controller devices for navigating whole slide images.
  • To identify preferred navigation methods among pathologists and trainees.
  • To assess the need for alternative navigation tools beyond standard mouse controls.

Main Methods

  • A whole slide image viewer was configured to support 10 navigation methods.
  • Thirty-eight pathologists and trainees participated in the usability study.
  • Participants provided feedback on their experience with each navigation device.

Main Results

  • Videogame console gamepads, SpaceMouse Pro, and large trackballs were the most preferred devices.
  • 63% of participants desired alternatives to standard click-and-drag mouse navigation.
  • Non-traditional controllers offer viable solutions for efficient digital pathology workflows.

Conclusions

  • Specialized and non-traditional controllers significantly enhance whole slide image navigation.
  • Adoption of digital pathology can be improved by offering diverse and efficient navigation tools.
  • Image management systems can differentiate by integrating preferred navigation devices.