A pathologist’s view on display performance in digital pathology research at Uniklinikum Erlangen, Germany

For more than 15 years, Dr Carol Geppert has been involved in shaping the digital pathology landscape at Uniklinikum Erlangen, where he serves as senior and specialist pathologist. The lab team, consisting of 25 pathologists and more than 110 employees works across cytopathology and general pathology including gastrointestinal and gynecologic pathology. Dr Geppert also focuses on the implementation of digital pathology processes.

Advancing digital pathology at Uniklinikum Erlangen

The hospital became involved with Barco through a research project conducted in cooperation with the gynecology department and Siemens Healthineers, focusing on breast biopsy diagnosis workflows. The objective of the study was to map the entire digital pathology workflow, in line with IVDR requirements. Within this context, Barco was the first company able to provide an IVDR‑certified display for use in the study – making this Dr Geppert’s second experience with our clinical products.

A digital pathology environment shaped by evolution

Uniklinikum Erlangen began using whole slide imaging in 2009, and since then, its digital infrastructure has expanded to scanners and software from numerous vendors.

Over time, they have seen profound changes in digital pathology technology. Scanner hardware has evolved from smaller systems to larger and faster devices, alongside a trend toward multiple smaller scanners that allow parallel processing and reduce hardware error risks.

On the software side, digital pathology has expanded beyond classic image analysis to include AI‑based tools, as well as image management systems that integrate with laboratory information systems.

Experience with the Barco MDPC‑8127

As part of the Siemens Healthineers study, four Barco MDPC‑8127 displays were installed at four pathology workstations. The displays are being used intensively, which allows Dr Geppert and his team to directly assess their impact on daily diagnostic work.

Working with Barco

Beyond the technology itself, Dr Geppert highlights the human aspect of collaborating with Barco during the research project. “The Barco team has been friendly, accessible and quick to respond, particularly when it comes to delivering hardware,” he says.

Continuing work in digital pathology

As case volumes and digital reliance grow, the demand for displays that combine precision with stability will only increase. Dr Geppert notes that high image refresh rates and excellent resolution bring a clear added value during diagnostic sessions.

This insight aligns with broader digital pathology discussions – particularly the need for robust visual infrastructure as AI and image analysis tools become more widespread. Pathologists adopting digital workflows require fast and reliable access to whole slide images, but they also depend on displays that must represent the original specimen faithfully.

We are excited about the continuation of the Siemens Healthineers research project and wish the Uniklinikum Erlangen team all the best!