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Over a Decade with Nanozoomer^®: Transforming Digital Pathology Education at Warsaw University

The University Center for Pathomorphology at the Medical University of Warsaw (UCK WUM) is a leading institution for education, research, and diagnostics in pathology. It plays a vital role in training future pathologists through a combination of traditional methods and new technologies, supported by its integration within the University Clinical Center (UCK). Known for its innovative approach, the center excels in education by combining modern teaching methods with advanced digital tools.

A Forward Step in Digital Pathology Education
The Advantages of Digital Collections
Student Feedback and Learning Experiences
Enhancing Pathology Education through Reliable Technology
About OPTA-TECH
About the author

A Forward Step in Digital Pathology Education

In 2014, under the leadership of Prof. Barbara Górnicka, then head of the department, the University Center for Pathomorphology at UCK WUM took a pioneering step in modernizing pathology education by installing a state-of-the-art digital scanner, the NanoZoomer^® HT. Supplied through Hamamatsu’s distributor, OPTA-TECH, this was the first installation of its kind in Poland. The introduction of virtual slides allowed students to view and analyze histological specimens digitally — a transformative shift from traditional microscopy and a milestone for pathology training at the university.

NanoZoomer HT

The Advantages of Digital Collections

Maintaining a collection of digital whole slide images has several benefits over collections of glass slides. The ability to make a digital record of the slide in its most perfect form, just after creation, before any degradation, fading of staining, or physical damage occurs, ensures that the highest quality teaching materials are preserved. Significantly, these digital collections are centrally maintained, eliminating the risk of loss that comes with passing around physical slides. Since 2014, not a single teaching slide has been lost, and all materials remain accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. Digital platforms offer advanced annotation tools that far exceed the limitations of traditional pen markings on glass slides. These features offer structured, interactive learning, making complex pathology concepts more accessible and engaging.

Student Feedback and Learning Experiences

Students have praised the technology for improving their learning experience. One student shared, “Virtual slides ensure we all study high-quality samples and focus on the correct features in the tissue. It’s also incredibly helpful to revisit the slides after class, rather than being limited to the microscope during lessons.” This flexibility has been transformative, allowing students to deepen their understanding at their own pace while increasing accuracy.

Pathologists at the center also value the scanner's unwavering reliability and impact on education. Dr. Jakub Grzybowski, a pathologist at the University Center for Pathomorphology, reflected, “Since its installation in 2014, the scanner has been exceptionally reliable. I recall only one issue, which was resolved swiftly, ensuring minimal disruption”.

The strong collaboration with OPTA-TECH has also been a key factor in the center’s success. Katarzyna Sokolowska, a technical assistant with over 25 years of experience at the center noted, “We loved working with Opta-Tech. In addition to the scanner, they have provided us with other lab equipment and have proven themselves as true experts in the field”.

Jakub and Katarzyna

Enhancing Pathology Education through Reliable Technology

Over the years, the NanoZoomer scanner has demonstrated exceptional reliability, ensuring uninterrupted learning and research. Its consistent performance has transformed pathology training at the Medical University of Warsaw, demonstrating how dependable technology can enhance both education and research.

About OPTA-TECH

OPTA-TECH, the official Polish distributor of Hamamatsu digital pathology solutions, specializes in slide scanners, telepathology platforms, and image analysis systems. For over 10 years, they have distributed Hamamatsu scanners, offering scalable and integrated solutions for modern laboratories.

About the author

Marta Bohle, PhD

Marta Böhle, PhD, is an Application Engineer at Hamamatsu, specializing in both research and clinical whole slide imaging using NanoZoomer^® scanners. With a PhD in Neuroscience and extensive experience in diverse imaging techniques, Marta is passionate about imaging and dedicated to supporting customers in their projects.

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