Contrast sonography for uterine cavity assessment: a comparison of conventional two-dimensional with three-dimensional transvaginal ultrasound; a pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
To compare conventional two- (2-D) and three-dimensional (3-D) scanning of the uterine cavity with and without saline contrast medium.


METHODS
Observational pilot study.


METHODS
University-based fertility service.


METHODS
Ten IVF patients requiring uterine cavity assessment.


METHODS
Two-dimensional and 3-D transvaginal scans before and after injection of saline into the uterine cavity.


METHODS
Number and type of uterine cavity abnormalities detected by each technique.


RESULTS
The 2-D scanning suggested cavity abnormalities in 4 of 10 women (fibroids, 3; hyperechoeic thick endometrium, 1). The 3-D scanning confirmed these and revealed one additional abnormality suggestive of a uterine septum. The 2-D scanning with saline injection diagnosed abnormalities in 5 of 10 (uterine septum, 1; fibroids, 3; endometrial polyp, 1). The 3-D contrast scanning with saline did not add any further information to 2-D contrast scanning with saline.


CONCLUSIONS
In this pilot study, 3-D scanning to assess the uterine cavity appeared to offer no advantages over conventional 2-D contrast sonography.
Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Oxford Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, United Kingdom.
G
G
Ayida
S
S
Kennedy
D
D
Barlow
P
P
Chamberlain
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010865:Pilot Projects; D014463:Ultrasonography / Q000379:methods*; D014599:Uterus / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*