APPLICATIONS OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL ULTRASOUND IN GYNECOLOGY

Abstract

Three-dimensional ultra:;oull(! has recentl:f been introduced into clinical practice, overcoming some of the limitations of two-dimensional (2D) sonography. Although 2D transvaginal ultrasound k1s lleen cstablishccl as a reliable, cost-cllcctivc and no11-invasive technique for the evaluation of organs of the lower pelvis, a disadvantage of this technique is that the examination of the organ is usually limited to transverse and longitudinal sections, which give an incomplete view of the structure. Three-dimensional ultrasound provides simultaneous display oY coronal, sagittal ancl transverse planes. Three-diJncnsional ultrasound offers improved visualization of a lesion, more accurate volume estimation, rctnJspcctive rev1cw ol• stored d 1ta ancl assessment of tumor invasion. Till•ec-climensional 1\ystcro­ sonography is very usefui in the evaluation of the uterine cavity and is more useful than 11ysterosonograplly hy 20 transvaginal ultrasound in cases or submucous myomas and polyps. The 3D power Doppler system improves the . information available on tumor vascularity, enabli!1g visualization of overlapping vessels and assessment of their relationship to other vessels or surrounding tissue.