Clinical utility of three-dimensional US

Three-dimensional (3D) ultrasonography (US) is rapidly gaining popularity as it moves out of the research environment and into the clinical setting. This modality offers several distinct advantages over conventional US, including 3D image reconstruction with a single pass of the US beam, virtually unlimited viewing perspectives; accurate assessment of long-term effects of treatment; and more accurate, repeatable evaluation of anatomic structures and disease entities. In obstetric imaging, 3D US provides a novel perspective on the fetal anatomy, makes anomalies easier to recognize, facilitates maternal-fetal bonding, and helps families better understand fetal abnormalities. Three-dimensional pelvic US allows volume data sets to be acquired with both transvaginal and transabdominal probes. Viewing multiple 3D power Doppler US images in a fast cine loop has proved useful in angiographic applications. Three-dimensional prostate US can help make accurate volume assessments for dosimetry planning or for estimating prostate-specific antigen levels. In breast imaging, 3D US has the capacity to demonstrate lesion margins and topography, thereby helping differentiate benign from malignant masses. Three-dimensional US can also help determine the need for biopsy and help facilitate needle localization and guidance during biopsy. With recent advances in computer technology and display techniques, 3D US will likely play an increasingly important role in medicine.