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Quality improvement in basic histotechnology: the lean approach

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Abstract

Lean is a comprehensive system of management based on the Toyota production system (TPS), encompassing all the activities of an organization. It focuses management activity on creating value for the end-user by continuously improving operational effectiveness and removing waste. Lean management creates a culture of continuous quality improvement with a strong emphasis on developing the problem-solving capability of staff using the scientific method (Deming’s Plan, Do, Check, Act cycle). Lean management systems have been adopted by a number of histopathology departments throughout the world to simultaneously improve quality (reducing errors and shortening turnround times) and lower costs (by increasing efficiency). This article describes the key concepts that make up a lean management system, and how these concepts have been adapted from manufacturing industry and applied to histopathology using a case study of lean implementation and evidence from the literature. It discusses the benefits, limitations, and pitfalls encountered when implementing lean management systems.

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Acknowledgments

The author acknowledges Mr. Robert Hughes, Histopathology Manager, Path Links UK for assistance in preparing Figs. 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7.

Conflict of interest

The author declares no conflict of interest.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Cellular Pathology, Path Links Lincoln County Hospital, Greetwell Rd, Lincoln, LN2 4AX, UK

    David Clark

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  1. David Clark
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Correspondence to David Clark.

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Clark, D. Quality improvement in basic histotechnology: the lean approach. Virchows Arch 468, 5–17 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00428-015-1838-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00428-015-1838-0

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