ABSTRACT
Three-dimensional ultrasound has recently been introduced into clinical practice1,2, overcoming some of the limitations of two-dimensional sonography. Although twodimensional transvaginal ultrasound has been established as a reliable, cost-effective and non-invasive technique for the evaluation of the lower pelvis and pregnant uterus3, a disadvantage of this technique is that the examination of an organ is usually limited to transverse and longitudinal sections, which give an incomplete view of the structure(s) analyzed. The major advantages of three-dimensional ultrasound are the ability to obtain ultrasound sections that are impossible to see on a routine scan, and the ability to perform accurate volume measurements. In addition, three-dimensional anatomical reconstruction of the structures of interest is possible4. Once the complete volume has been stored, the data can be accessed and reexamined at any time, even after the patient has been discharged. Equivocal findings can be scrutinized without time pressure and any discomfort for the patient, and a second or even third examiner can read and interpret the stored volume independently of the first examiner. Using the multiplanar view, all three perpendicular planes are displayed simultaneously on the monitor, enabling accurate assessment to be made of the acquired volumes. Rotation control can be used to rotate stored images into the position most favorable for the examiner, and tomographic exploration of the pelvic organs can be initiated from the same starting position.
