Can 3-dimensional Ultrasound Change Gynecological Ultrasonographic Examination?

Abstract

Abstract Objective To verify whether 3D transvaginal ultrasonography is as accurate as 2D conventional ultrasonography and whether it provides additional advantages in gynecologic diagnosis. Material and methods We performed a prospective study in 46 women who underwent 2D and 3D transvaginal scans successively. Three 3D volumes (uterus and each ovary) were acquired and evaluated 4 months later on a personal computer. We compared 2D and 3D scans in relation to sonographic diagnosis and biometry and the time spent. Results There was complete agreement between 2D and 3D techniques for sonographic diagnosis (31 normal exams, 16 adnexal cysts and seven myomas), except for the visualization and measurement of the uterine cervix. The mean time for 2D scans was 3.29 ± 1.32 minutes and was 2.96 ± 0.58 minutes for 3D examination (P = 0.076). The time required to acquire 3D volumes was only 1 hour, freeing 1 hour and 32 minutes for the performance of new scans. Conclusions Transvaginal 3D ultrasonography can be more efficient than conventional 2D ultrasonography in gynecologic diagnosis.