3-DIMENSIONAL ULTRASOUND - DISPLAY MODALITIES IN OBSTETRICS

Three-dimensional ultrasound (3DUS) has recently been introduced into clinical practice. Various techniques are available for display of the volume data. We review the importance of selecting the proper display option and rendering mode depending on the specific diagnostic questi on. Current display options include (1) arbitrary planar images simila r to conventional two-dimensional US images, (2) surface rendering wit h emphasis on soft tissues or skeletal detail, (3) stereo viewing usin g liquid crystal glasses or red/blue glasses, and (4) cine review of g ated studies. Rotation of volume data also is important in understandi ng/comprehending patient anatomy. The range of rotation angles varies depending on the clinical setting. Also data storage requirements incr ease as the number of views increases. (C) 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc .