Three-dimensional (3D) ultrasonography (US) is rapidly gaining popularity a
s it moves out of the research environment and into the clinical setting. T
his modality offers several distinct advantages over conventional US, inclu
ding 3D image reconstruction with a single pass of the US beam, virtually u
nlimited 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 perspect
ive on the fetal anatomy, makes anomalies easier to recognize, facilitates
maternal-fetal bonding, and helps families better understand fetal abnormal
ities. Three-dimensional pelvic US allows volume data sets to be acquired w
ith both transvaginal and transabdominal probes. Viewing multiple 3D power
Doppler US images in a fast cine loop has proved useful in angiographic app
lications. Three-dimensional prostate US can help make accurate volume asse
ssments for dosimetry planning or for estimating prostate-specific antigen
levels. In breast imaging, 3D US has the capacity to demonstrate lesion mar
gins and topography, thereby helping differentiate benign from malignant ma
sses. 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.