Pathologists enthusiastic over new multitouch microscope

September 9, 2011 — The 23rd European Congress of Pathology was held at Helsinki Exhibition & Convention Centre in the beginning of September. Thousands of pathologists gathered together to hear the latest news in the fields of research, technology and diagnostics.

Senior lecturer Johan Lundin from the Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM) presented the new multitouch microscope, now adapted to a giant-sized display.

The multitouch microscope, developed by FIMM in collaboration with the Finnish company MultiTouch, was launched last spring. The innovation was greeted with applause, especially in the media.

At the time, the microscope had a 46-inch display, but now the pathologists could admire the invention on a wall-size screen.

Janusz Szymas, professor of pathology at Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland, is extremely impressed by the giant multitouch microscope.

– I have taught pathology for 42 years, and students clearly indicate that they prefer virtual microscopes to traditional ones. The screen would be phenomenal for lectures and group assignments. Pathologist Marius Nap, from Heerlen in the Netherlands, also finds the multitouch microscope fascinating.

– Having one of these would be excellent when recruiting new pathologists. If the students ask us if the profession is anything like on television, like CSI, for example, we would be able to answer ‘yes’, he exclaims.

Nap points out that the technology would have a major impact on teaching in particular. It would also be extremely useful in consultations between pathologists and other medical professionals.

So far, FIMM is the only place to have multitouch microscopes.

– A ‘spin-off’ company will be founded shortly to make the technology available to others. We already see a great demand, and the microscope is ready to be launched on the market, says Lundin.

Presentation of the microscope on YouTube »»

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Source: University of Helsinki

Text and photo: Nadine Aschan
Translation: AAC Global
University of Helsinki, digital communications

www.helsinki.fi/university/index.html