Efficacy of stereomicroscope as an aid to histopathological diagnosis

Grossing and microscopic examination of the received specimens in a histopathological laboratory is a routine procedure for achieving a fi nal diagnosis. Errors in either of the steps may lead to an inaccurate diagnosis since wrong orientation of the specimen may either cause diagnostic delays or pose a diagnostic dilemma. Stereomicroscope is an important accessory instrument which can be used to study a variety of specimens. It not only enables us to study the surface details but also aids in minute work including dissection and microsurgery to name a few. AIM: To assess the effectiveness of stereomicroscope in routine grossing and its role in arriving at a final diagnosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cases from the archives of the department for which stereomicroscopic evaluation was done were retrieved and reviewed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Stereomicroscopic images aided not only in the proper orientation of the specimen but also in the diagnosis.