Fetal skeletal dysplasia: three-dimensional US--initial experience.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the prenatal ultrasonographic (US) features of skeletal dysplasia by using two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) US to determine whether 3D US can reveal additional diagnostic information.


METHODS
Seven pregnant women suspected of having skeletal dysplasia were examined by using 2D US and 3D US. Data regarding the thorax, spine, face, limbs, hands, and feet were compared. Multiplanar and volume-rendered US images were evaluated.


RESULTS
The skeletal dysplasias studied included camptomelic dysplasia (n = 2), thanatophoric dysplasia (n = 1), osteogenesis imperfecta (n = 1), arthrogryposis (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, splayed digits, and absent bones. Three-dimensional US enabled the acquisition of additional information in two fetuses with facial abnormalities and in two fetuses with scapular aplasia or hypoplasia (one fetus had both facial and scapular anomalies); it enabled a specific diagnosis in one fetus. The archiving capabilities of 3D US allow the review and manipulation of data after the patient has left the clinic.


CONCLUSIONS
In three of seven patients, 3D US provided additional information in the evaluation of skeletal dysplasias, as compared with 2D US.
Garjian
K V
KV
Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla 92093-0610, USA.
Pretorius
D H
DH
Budorick
N E
NE
Cantrell
C J
CJ
Johnson
D D
DD
Nelson
T R
TR
D001848:Bone Diseases, Developmental / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D001842:Bone and Bones / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005260:Female; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D011247:Pregnancy; D011873:Radiology Information Systems; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal