Fetal skeletal dysplasia: Three-dimensional US - Initial experience

PURPOSE: To compare the prenatal ultrasonographic (US) features of skeletal dysplasia by using two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) US to d etermine whether 3D US can reveal additional diagnostic information. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seven pregnant women suspected of having skeletal dy splasia were examined by using 2D US and 3D US. Data regarding the thorax, spine, face, limbs, hands, and feet were compared. Multiplanar and volume-r endered US images were evaluated. RESULTS: The skeletal dysplasias studied included camptomelic dysplasia (n = 2), thanatophoric dysplasia (n = 1), osteogenesis imperfecta (n = 1), art hrogryposis (n = 2), and short-limbed dysplasia (n = 1). Three-dimensional US, by allowing review in a standard anatomic orientation, was better than 2D US in depicting abnormal spatial relationships such as short ribs, splay ed digits, and absent bones. Three-dimensional US enabled the acquisition o f additional information in two fetuses with facial abnormalities and in tw o fetuses with scapular aplasia or hypoplasia (one fetus had both facial an d scapular anomalies); it enabled a specific diagnosis in one fetus. The ar chiving capabilities of 3D US allow the review and manipulation of data aft er the patient has left the clinic. CONCLUSION: In three of seven patients, 3D US provided additional informati on in the evaluation of skeletal dysplasias, as compared with 20 US.