Vancouver General Hospital Upgrades Lab to Speed Up Cancer Diagnoses
Cancer cases are on the rise in the province, prompting Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) to introduce new technology and enhancements to its lab to expedite the diagnostic process for patients.
Dr. Michael Nimmo, head of VGH’s pathology department, detailed the traditional process of making a pathological diagnosis, involving embedding tissue samples in wax and examining thin slices under a microscope. However, with the introduction of the Auto Facing Device and Auto Slide Preparation System, many crucial steps leading to a diagnosis are now automated, enabling quicker completion, even outside regular lab hours.
The advancements allow for diagnoses to be delivered within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the specimen, a significant improvement, according to Nimmo.
Rebecca Chan, VCH Technical Practice lead for the Anatomical Pathology Lab, highlighted the efficiency of the new technology, capable of producing up to 410 slides per hour, significantly increasing the diagnostic speed.
The automation not only accelerates the process but also allows staff to load materials and operate the machines 24/7, maximising the facility’s efficiency and output.
Funded by the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation’s Greater Than Cancer campaign, which raised over $39 million, the lab upgrades aim to advance cancer diagnostics, treatment, and research at VGH, benefiting approximately 30,000 yearly cancer diagnoses.
Angela Chapman, foundation president and CEO, stressed the importance of innovating to accelerate diagnoses and treatment for the growing number of cancer patients, emphasizing the reduction in technician workload and the prioritization of diagnosis and treatment.
VGH’s implementation of this cutting-edge technology marks a significant advancement in cancer care in British Columbia.