Telepath link

What is a telepath link?

Clinicians need to assess what type of tumour patients have whilst they undergo their operation.

To do this, they use a telepath link, a from of technology which allows digital images of tumour samples to be sent across to a Consultant Neurohistopathologist at Birmingham Queen Elizabeth hospital.

How does the telepath link work?

Two microscopes are used: one at University Hospital and one at Birmingham Queen Elizabeth. Both microscopes are linked to a computer, and the sample taken from the tumour is sent via a computer and the world wide web. 

The Consultant Neurohistopathologist can then use the technology to manipulate the image, for example zooming in and out and viewing it through layers. A diagnosis is given, and the gliadel wafers may or may not be inserted following this.

What are the advantages of the telepath link?

The telepath link enables clinicians to quickly and accurately assess the grade of a patient's tumour, thereby enabling them to make a decision as to whether gliadel wafers are an appropriate form of treatment.