Clinical Value of 3‐Dimensional Ultrasound in Gynecology

Abstract

This report provides examples of using 3-dimensional ultrasound diagnostically in gynecology. The cost efficiency it provides and the wide range of applications it has support the routine use of this ultrasound technology in the practice of gynecology.

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“…There are many examples of the diagnostic utility of 3DTVS in OB/GYN. For example, identification of an embedded, broken or partially expelled intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) is now possible [1], which can help to lead to resolution of that clinical problem (Figure 1). The identification of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE), not able to be seen laparoscopically, is also possible with the use of 3DTVS (Figure 2) [2].…”

“…The practical imaging of benign leiomyomata (i.e. fibroids) is often used to monitor their growth, with the caliper measurement of size, aiding decision-making regarding the possible need for surgical intervention (Figure 3) [1]. The identification of uterine malformations is also possible today, at times explaining the etiology of pregnancy loss and fertility failure (Figure 4).…”

Evaluation of a novel tomographic ultrasound device for abdominal examinations

“…Dedicated 3D/4D US probes (mechanical 3D probes) include a rotational tilt transducer unit that scans an area of interest within an angle up to 90° and allows complex processing of the image volume data [5, 6]. These probes are widely applied in gynaecology and obstetrics [7] as well as in echocardiography [8], and have also been evaluated for differential diagnosis of liver lesions [9, 10]. Although these studies report a high image quality especially for vascular architecture of liver lesions, the use of 3D/4D US probes for abdominal imaging is limited to predefined areas of restricted size.…”

Virtual evaluation of selected cervical lymph nodes with three‐dimensional ultrasound in thyroid cancer patients after thyroidectomy

“…Therefore, ultrasound can detect subtle early morphologic changes as well as an abnormal vascular pattern, both important parameters in the evaluation of malignant LNs. 13 With 3D ultrasound, a volume data set of the selected anatomy is obtained; the data set can be manipulated to reconstruct images virtually to explore a region of interest. 7,9,11 In a recent meta-analysis by de Bondt et al, a mean sensitivity of 86% and a mean specificity of 87% of ultrasound in the detection of malignant LNs were reported, compared to a mean sensitivity of 81% of both CT and MRI and a mean specificity of 76% for CT and 63% for MRI.…”

“…12 Three-dimensional ultrasound, a useful virtual tool for characterization of a lesion or structure of interest, is regularly employed in obstetrics-gynecology. 13 With 3D ultrasound, a volume data set of the selected anatomy is obtained; the data set can be manipulated to reconstruct images virtually to explore a region of interest. Recently, the utility of 3D ultrasound has been reported for the evaluation of the renal transplant vascular anastomosis, 14 assessment of parathyroid pathology, 15 and delineation of axillary LN pathology.…”