Purpose: We aim to investigate the feasibility of developing a tabletop photon-counting micro-computed tomography (CT) device that can perform intraoperative virtual histopathology on tumor specimens, showing the demarcation between the tumor and surrounding tissue. By enabling fast imaging and tissue analysis during surgery, the micro-CT device would enhance the accuracy of tumor excision and thus minimize harm to the patient by reducing the need for re-operations. Approach: A simulation using a Python package called SpekPy is used to investigate the potential capabilities of a tabletop micro-CT device on tumor specimens.1 We use existing micro-CT systems as a model for the tube parameters (filters, voltage, power, and current), and we assume an ideal detector in order to understand the upper limit of detection capabilities. Results: The simulated data indicate that when the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) is normalized for time, higher tube voltage is optimal across all tissue thicknesses. In contrast, when the CNR is normalized for dose, lower tube voltage ranges are preferable for thinner tissues. Since shorter acquisition times are desirable in this application and dose is not a concern (as the tissue is not live), it is useful to know that the highest applied voltage will yield the highest CNR, and thus the best capability for tumor differentiation. Additionally, the data suggest that the device can distinguish features as small as 33 microns within soft tissue, facilitating precise assessment of tumor margins. Conclusions: The simulation demonstrates that a micro-CT device with these specifications is capable of effectively performing intraoperative tumor margin assessment.